Call to end crackdown on protesters

MOSCOW: A major international NGO called on Zimbabwean authorities yesterday to end their crackdown on protesters and investigate the deaths and injuries of protesters that resulted from the excessive use of force by security officers.

Since Monday, Zimbabwe has been in a state of protest, sparked by a 150% increase in fuel prices that was introduced by the government at the weekend in a bid to tackle the economic crisis.

According to Human Rights Watch, at least five protesters have been killed and another 25 injured in clashes with the security forces.

“Zimbabwe authorities have a duty to maintain security during protests, but they need to do that without using excessive force.

“Those responsible for using unlawful lethal force should be promptly investigated and held accountable,” Dewa Mavhinga, Human Rights Watch Southern Africa director, said.

Protesters have burned down a police station, blocked off roads and looted stores, while security forces have responded with rubber bullets and tear gas.

More than 200 people were arrested as of Monday. On the same day, members of the Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights provided emergency medical services to 25 people who suffered gunshot injuries.

Human Rights Watch emphasised that authorities should “act in proportion to the seriousness of the offence” and never use firearms against civilians except for self-defence, or protecting others from the imminent threat of death or serious injury.

On the second day of the protests, local internet providers shut down access to the web and social media.

The Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights claimed that this hampered the co-ordination of medical aid distribution.

Mavhinga called on the Zimbabwean government to “immediately” restore access to the internet and social media, stressing that all Zimbabweans had a right to access information and express their views. |