2.2 Observations: The ZHRC monitored the affected areas observing and collecting
relevant information regarding the overall situation, paying particular attention to the
general living conditions of the communities concerned as they relate to human rights.
Key issues noted included the heavy presence of the army and the police in the
communities. The army had set up their army bases at police stations and were
guarding shops which were open to serve the community. It was also noted that
communities were aggrieved by the prevailing deteriorating economic situation in the
country which had led to the civil unrest.
2.3 Key informants: Interviews were carried out with those affected by the excessive
use of force by security agents including witnesses.
2.4 Focus Group discussions: These were carried out with those who were assaulted
and their witnesses, those whose property was destroyed, damaged and or looted as
well as the general community members who were able and willing to talk to the
ZHRC. Interactions were also carried out with some of the security agents that were
working in the affected areas.
3. Legal Frameworks
3.1 Constitutional and Legislative Frameworks
The Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No.20) Act 2013 is the supreme law in as far
as guaranteeing the rights of persons is concerned. The following sections of the
Constitution and other national legislation are relevant:
•
Section 48 provides for the right to life.
•
Section 49 (1) (b) provides for the right to personal liberty and states that;
“Every person has the right to personal liberty, which includes
the right not to be deprived of their liberty arbitrarily or without
just cause.”
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