ZLHR denounces forced evictions on World Day of So...

ZLHR denounces forced evictions on World Day of Social Justice

Philemon Jambaya

On World Day of Social Justice, the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights stands in solidarity with Zimbabweans facing “unprecedented injustices” perpetrated by both state and non-state actors.

This year’s theme, “Global Coalition for Social Justice: Bridging Gaps, Building Alliances”, emphasises the need for global cooperation in achieving social justice and equitable development. ZLHR urges all stakeholders to work towards a more inclusive and just world.

However, ZLHR expresses deep concern about the current situation in Zimbabwe, highlighting “grave injustices, high inequality, extreme poverty, high unemployment, grave human rights violations and gender inequality”.

The statement specifically criticises the ongoing forced evictions and displacements across the country, calling them “inhuman and degrading treatment” and a violation of the Zimbabwean Constitution and international human rights law.

ZLHR points out that despite the 2013 Constitution guaranteeing freedom from arbitrary eviction and international condemnation of similar actions in the past, the government has embarked on “an infamous countrywide operation” causing widespread suffering.

The organisation emphasises the detrimental effects of these evictions, including creating “a web of disadvantage and perpetuating cycles of human rights excesses, inequality, poverty, internal displacements, starvation and large-scale suffering.”