Constitution Watch 5/2017 ZHRC PressStatement on the Political Situation in Zimbabwe
16 Nov 2017
COMMISSIONS WATCH 5/2017
ZIMBABWE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
[17th November 2017]
PRESS STATEMENT BY THE ZIMBABWE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION (ZHRC)
ON THE POLITICAL SITUATION IN ZIMBABWE, 16 NOVEMBER 2017
The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) as one of the five Independent
Commissions Supporting Democracy in Zimbabwe notes the political situation
unfolding in the country. Independent Commissions Supporting Democracy in
Zimbabwe are mandated among other objectives to support and entrench human
rights and democracy, to protect the sovereignty and interests of the people and to
promote constitutionalism as provided for in Section 233 of the Constitution of
Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 20) Act 2013.
The ZHRC is encouraged by assurances by the military concerning the imperative to
uphold constitutionalism and values of justice, non-violence, human rights and
freedoms in resolving the current political situation. The Commission also observes
the positive assurances of non-interference in the discharge of duties by arms of
Government, including the Judiciary and the Legislature as well as the appeal made
to different sectors of society to perform their functions and duties in a responsible
manner that promotes peace, stability, unity and development in the country.
As the country awaits with anxiety the resolution of the current situation, the Zimbabwe
Human Rights Commission further implores the military to continue to exercise
restraint bearing in mind the duty of the State and every person to respect, protect,
promote and fulfil fundamental rights and freedoms as provided for in Section 44 of
the Constitution of Zimbabwe, in particular, the sanctity of life. Finally, the ZHRC
encourages that there be a quick return to constitutionalism and democracy so that
the people of Zimbabwe can continue to enjoy their fundamental rights and freedoms.
THE ZIMBABWE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION