Human rights activist Robson Chéré initiated legal proceedings against Home Affairs Minister Kazembe Kazembe and Elijah Chingosho, director general of the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ), following his kidnapping and allegations of torture by state security agents about three months ago. This shocking incident highlights ongoing human rights violations in Zimbabwe, particularly against those who oppose the government.

The kidnapping took place on July 31, when Robson Chere, along with fellow activists Namatai Kwekweza, Samuel Gwenzi and Vusumuzi Moyo, were forcibly removed from a flight to Victoria Falls at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport . Reports indicate that the activists were subjected to torture during their detention, highlighting the dangers faced by individuals defending democratic rights in Zimbabwe.

The activists were accused of participating in a demonstration in solidarity with 78 members of the Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC), an opposition party, arrested the previous month for illegal assembly. This incident not only raises concerns about individual rights, but also reflects a broader climate of repression against dissenting voices in the country.

In a notable legal development, three activists arrested ahead of the 44th Ordinary Summit of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have been released on bail by the High Court. Each was set bail at US$150, with conditions requiring them to report monthly to police, refrain from disturbing prosecution witnesses and maintain residence at specified addresses.

Robson DearThe legal notice, issued through Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, outlines his intention to sue Kazembe and Chingosho for damages relating to unlawful arrest, detention and assault. He described his ordeal in great detail, stating: “This letter serves as notice of intention to sue you for damages for unlawful arrest, detention, unlawful assault or torture, pain and suffering, humiliation and affront to the dignity, trauma and nervous shock resulting from the forced expulsion of our client from a domestic flight to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport and his incommunicado detention.

Robson Chere recounted a particularly harrowing experience during his interrogation, during which he suffered severe beatings that rendered him unconscious. This account is a stark reminder of the perilous environment facing human rights defenders in Zimbabwe, where state power is often used to stifle dissent and suppress advocacy for democratic reforms.

It’s not Robson Chéréfirst legal confrontation with government officials. In 2021, he joined forces with human rights lawyer Douglas Coltart and other pro-democracy activists to take Kazembe to court, alongside Zimbabwe Republic Police Commissioner General Godwin Matanga and of the national prosecuting authority. They sought ZWL$12.5 million in damages, alleging wrongful and malicious arrest in connection with allegations of inciting civil disobedience.

Robson Chere’s recent actions demonstrate an ongoing fight against systemic human rights violations in Zimbabwe. Continued harassment and violence against activists contributes to a pervasive climate of fear, deterring many from engaging in advocacy work. Robson Chere’s determination to seek justice through the justice system illustrates the resilience of those fighting for human rights and the rule of law in the face of insurmountable odds.

The international community is closely monitoring developments and urges the Zimbabwean government to respect human rights and the rule of law. Activists like Robson Chere are playing a vital role in this ongoing fight, highlighting abuses and demanding accountability from those in power. Their courage and commitment to justice are essential to the future of democracy in Zimbabwe, where the fight for human rights remains an uphill battle.

In other news – Saintfloew tackles beef and addiction – ‘Holy Ten didn’t make me’

Rapper Saintfloew has been making headlines recently, not only for his music, but also for his outspoken remarks regarding his rivalry with fellow artist Holy Ten. In a revealing interview with DJ Ollah on his podcast, Saintfloew cleared up misconceptions about their relationship, saying he wasn’t discovered by Holy Ten but sought him out to collaborate before their partnership fell apart. deteriorates into a quarrel.

The rivalry between the two artists has been the subject of much speculation in the music scene. Holy Ten accused Saintfloew of turning on him despite the opportunities he gave him, describing him as “biting the hand that fed him”. Learn more

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