Zim under fire over crackdown
ZIMBABWE’s security forces have come under fire from the UN for the manner in which they handled the protests over fuel hikes, leading to the deaths of at least 10 people.
“The bottom line is that the use of live ammunition by security forces was excessive,” said UN High Commissioner for Human Rights spokesperson Ravina Shamdasan.
“This is not the way to react to expression of economic grievances by the population,” the envoy said.
More than 600 protesters were arrested in the country, as state security agents in Zimbabwe unleashed what has been described as “a violent crackdown” on citizens who participated in the protests that rocked Zimbabwe.
The violent protests were sparked by government’s astronomical fuel price hike that saw diesel increasing from $1.24 (R17) to $3.11 (R43) and petrol rising to $3.31 (R46) from $1.34 (R18.55).
The Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights (ZADHR) confirmed it had treated hordes of victims, mostly from shootings.
Relatives of the dead and some whose loved ones were missing want justice. “We have lost a brother who was to be the sole breadwinner after recently graduating. He was slain in cold blood, paying the price for demanding affordable fuel prices,” said Revai Mushunje of Epworth.
The impoverished suburb was among the worst hit by protests after President Emmerson Mnangagwa two weeks ago announced the increase of more than 150% on fuel.
This past weekend, in a joint press conference, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) and Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) defended their actions, blaming the so-called third force for the violent protests.
Colonel Overson Mugwisi, military director of communications, insisted the joint security operation would continue.
“ZDF and security services remain committed to the provision of safety and security to all members of the public. In the same vein, we want to warn those bent on causing mayhem that the law will be applied without fear or favour,” stressed Mugwisi.
Police spokesperson Commissioner Charity Charamba absolved law enforcers, claiming civilians clad in military and police uniforms, seized during protests in Epworth and Chegutu, perpetrated the crimes. “We are giving an ultimatum to individuals who have retired, deserted and absented themselves without official leave from services to immediately hand over uniforms,” she said.