1. Introduction
The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission received complaints involving alleged
discrimination on the basis of political affiliation in the distribution of agricultural inputs
and food aid in Buhera North Constituency (which is made up of 8 wards that is, wards 7,
8,9,10,11,12,13 and 31 which were all affected), Mazowe Central Constituency (in
particular wards 7 and 8), Muzarabani North and South Constituencies (wards 2 and 17
respectively) and Bikita East Constituency (in particular the Dewure Resettlement
Scheme covering wards 4 to 25.) This report contains findings of the ZHRC pursuant to
investigations conducted into the complaints.
1.2.
In determining its role in this matter, the ZHRC considered that the facts gave
rise to distinct causes of action, namely :
1.2.1. Human rights investigation into human rights violations of Chapter 4 Part 2
of the Declaration of Rights in the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
1.2.2. Maladministration investigation on the role of public officials who were
allegedly performing their duties partially and with bias against persons of a
particular political affiliation in contravention of provisions of the Public Service
Regulations SI 1/2000.
1.2.3. Possible Recommendation of Criminal investigation of public officials who
were allegedly stealing trust property in the form of food aid entrusted to them
for distribution in contravention of the Criminal Law Codification and Reform
Act.
1.2.4. Alleged Criminal Violation of Human Rights in respect of assault
perpetrated by ZANU-PF members on Buhera North Ward 7 MDC-T councilor.
2. Mandate of the Commission
2.1.
The ZHRC is established as an Independent Commission in terms of section
242 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe. The functions of the ZHRC are set out in
terms of section 243 (1) (a)–(k) which includes among others; to promote
awareness of and respect for human rights and freedoms at all levels of society,
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