Catholic Bishops' Conference condemns violence aga...

Catholic Bishops' Conference condemns violence against dissenters

Oscar J Jeke

Zim Now Reporter

The Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference has raised concern over prevailing reports of abductions on opposition members and activists ahead of the SADC Heads of State Summit, an act they have condemned as as against the tenets of the country’s supreme law.

The condemnation by ZCBC comes as there have been several arrests and alleged abductions of a number of activists and opposition members including over 40 ZINASU students during the past weeks, that have also been condemned by various civic societies and opposition parties.

In a statement, ZCBC said the prevailing situation is sad especially considering that the country is itself a democracy hence should uphold democratic tenets of freedom of speech, expression and association as provided for in the constitution of the country.

“As the Catholic Bishops we are worried and saddened that to silence the dissenting voices and to quell possible demonstrations violence, torture and abductions seem to be the only options deployed. Why not dialogue with those who feel aggrieved by the present state of our country,” the statement reads.

The Law Society of Zimbabwe also echoed the same sentiments, specifically targeted at the alleged torture of Robson Chere and three other activists while under investigation by the police.

The law society revealed that they have engaged the ministry of Justice and of Home affairs to see that investigations in the matter are processed.

In its statement the society stated, “the Law Society of Zimbabwe is aware of a report circulating on social media about the torture of one Robson Chere following his arrest alongside two other activists at the Robert Mugabe International Airport.

“The LSZ is committed to upholding the rule of law and rights of accused person to receive fair and humane treatment.”

Zimbabwe is set to host the SADC Summit, which has been met with different reactions from various groups whom have expressed the will to demonstrate again the current living conditions and political situation in the country.

The government and ZANU PF have reacted to these planned demonstrations by promising a crack down on protestors, with security and law enforcement agents on high alert.