Abductions Reported Ahead Of Opposition Protests In Zimbabwe

Reports are circulating regarding instances of abduction and torture ahead of planned opposition protests over the economic crisis in Zimbabwe this Friday, August 16. 

According to civil society groups at least six people have been abducted and may have been tortured by suspected state agents. 

Among those to express concern are Amnesty International, which has today warned of the “escalating crackdown against human rights defenders, activists, civil society leaders and members of the opposition”.

The group’s Deputy Director for Southern Africa Muleya Mwananyanda is quoted as stating, “We are witnessing a violent crackdown on activists and civil society leaders, with authorities using some of the brutal tactics seen under the government of Robert Mugabe.”

“Instead of listening to protestors’ concerns about the economy, the authorities have used torture and abduction to crush dissent and instil fear,” Mwananyanda added. 

Amnesty International claims to have documented two instances of abuse, including that of Tatenda Mombeyarara, who was arrested after participating in a capacity-building workshop on non-violent protest tactics in the Maldives, and MDC activist Blessing Kanotunga, who was taken from his home and later found with serious injuries.  

“The authorities must launch a prompt, thorough, impartial and effective investigation into the abduction and torture of the two activists and ensure that suspected perpetrators are brought to justice in fair trials,” Mwananyanda has stated. 

“As people prepare to protest for their socio-economic rights over the next few days, authorities must exercise restraint against protesters and respect, protect and promote both freedom of expression and freedom of peaceful assembly of everyone. Organizing and participating in protests is not a crime.”