Full statement by the Law Society of Zimbabwe on the escalation of political violence in the country.
The Law Society of Zimbabwe, notes with grave concern reports of what seems to be an escalation of political violence in some parts of the country.
A particular incident is of a recording that is circulating on social media showing some senior citizens being beaten up for what appears to be their choice of political affiliation in Mashonaland East’s Murewa district.
While police have indicated publicly that they are investigating the case and have issued an update on the progress made to date, it is important that stakeholders raise the red flag immediately in order to have such deplorable conduct nipped in the bud. This is even more so given that we are in an election year.
The outbreak of violence is disconcerting to anyone who wishes Zimbabwe well. The scourge of political violence has continued to be a blot on our electoral processes for decades and given indications of political will to end it, it is important that decisive action be taken now to end it.
The Law Society of Zimbabwe on behalf of the profession, calls on all political leaders to commit to non-violence not only in word but also in deed.
Insincere public pronouncements against political violence will not end the vice. Politicians must stop speaking with forked tongues, declaring a commitment to a violent free election by day while coaxing their supporters to terrorise citizens by night.
Zimbabwe now more than ever needs its leaders across the political divide to show maturity and leadership.
If the country is to reap the rewards of the country’s engagement and re-engagement thrust as espoused by the government, it is important that all actions are synchronised to achieve the goals of this policy.
The right to political choice is deeply engrained in our constitution and no one has a right to vary it at a whim.
We urge police to act with speed to bring to account those implicated in the Murewa violence as a way of sending a clear message to all and sundry against such actions.