kidnapping and torture.157 On October 6, 2000, following widespread political violence during parliamentary elections, President Mugabe pardoned those responsible for politically motivated crimes committed during the January-July 2000 campaign.158 Although to date no formal amnesty has been granted for politically motivated crimes in the 2008 elections, the lack of judicial independence and the partisanship of the police already amounts to a de facto amnesty for ZANU-PF supporters who participated in political violence. Zimbabwe’s power-sharing agreement was signed at a time when scores of victims of human rights abuses were seeking justice and accountability. In the preamble to the agreement, the parties dedicated themselves to permanently putting an end to polarization, divisions, conflict and intolerance that had characterized Zimbabwean politics and society.159 On signing the agreement President Robert Mugabe said, “We are committed to the deal. We will do our best.” Prime Minister-designate Morgan Tsvangirai said, “l have signed this agreement because l believe it represents the best opportunity for us to build a prosperous Zimbabwe.”160 In the text of the agreement, the parties further expressed determination to act in a manner that demonstrated respect for the democratic values of justice, fairness, openness, tolerance, equality, and respect for all persons and human rights. Despite such words, it remains evident that ZANU-PF is continuing to use the justice administration system as a weapon against its perceived opponents—the MDC and critical elements of civil society. The institutions of repression remain intact and there is no evidence of change in the conduct and attitude of the police, senior judges or other security organs. 157 Clemency Order Number 1 of 1995. 158 Clemency Order Number 1 of October 6, 2000. 159 “Agreement between the Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF) and the two Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) formations, on resolving the challenges facing Zimbabwe” (Agreement between ZANU-PF and MDC), Harare, September 15, 2008. 160 Statements by Robert Mugabe and Morgan Tsvangirai on signing the power-sharing agreement, Harare, September 15, 2008. 45 Human Rights Watch November 2008