We Need to Keep an Eye on Human Rights in Zimbabwe

The American Bar Association (ABA) has received credible reports that the Zimbabwe police have violated Zimbabwe law and fundamental human rights law in attacks on citizens gathered to exercise their legitimate democratic rights at a meeting in Highfield outside of Harare. Police used live ammunition and opened fire on protestors at this meeting which resulted in the death of one and injury to others. The ABA is concerned about alleged beatings of these individuals and their detention without cause and without medical treatment. In addition, it is reported that those who have been released were affirmatively denied needed medical care and treatment.

We are deeply concerned that more than 20 staffers at Harvest House were arrested on March 28 and remain in detention in apparent violation of their fundamental rights.

The ABA is extremely concerned about reports that the lawyers of the detainees were prevented from contacting their clients and that police refused to allow access as dictated by a court order.

Zimbabwe is a State Signatory to the African Charter of Human and People’s Rights, as well as to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. These recently reported events appear to indicate violations of the victims’ rights to freedom of peaceful assembly, participation in political and governmental affairs, and personal integrity, all as guaranteed by articles 4, 5, 6, 11 and 13 of the African Charter, and by articles 7, 9, 10.1, 21 and 25.a of the International Covenant.

See the ABA’s letter to, Robert Mugabe, the President of Zimbabwe, here.