CSOs call for release of detained activists, allege police brutality
Peter Moyo
In a scathing rebuke, four prominent Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) are demanding the immediate release of 29 young women political activists, alleging their unlawful arrest and detention by police.
The activists were part of a larger group of 79 arrested on June 16th while peacefully commemorating the Day of the African Child at a private residence in Harare. Following their court appearance on June 18th, the women reported “brutality, torture and ill treatment” at the hands of police, according to a joint statement released by the CSOs namely, Women’s Institute for Leadership Development (WILD), WELEAD, Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU) and Women’s Academy for Leadership and Political Excellence (WALPE.)
“We are deeply disturbed by the unjust arrests of these young women,” said the statement. Several activists sustained injuries and are allegedly being denied medical attention, a violation of Zimbabwean and international law.
The CSOs point to Zimbabwe’s obligations as a signatory to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which guarantees freedom from torture and cruel treatment. They argue that the arrests and treatment of the activists violate these fundamental rights. “The government must uphold its responsibility to create a safe space for women to participate in political activity without fear of violence,” the statement continued. “This victimization deters women from participating in our democracy, as enshrined in the Constitution.”
The CSOs outlined the detrimental effects of the government’s actions on Zimbabwean democracy, including silencing dissent, discouraging women’s participation in politics, and eroding trust in institutions. “Underrepresentation of women in government weakens our democracy,” the statement argues. Less than 5% of young women hold elected office, highlighting a troubling trend of gender inequality.
They also presented a series of demands, including the immediate release of the detained activists, an impartial investigation into the alleged abuses, and legislative reforms to ensure the protection of fundamental rights.
