On Wednesday, Kariba MP John Houghton and twelve other activists were arrested in Kariba for staging an unsanctioned protest demanding the release of CCC leader Jameson Timba and 77 other activists. The demonstration, which included prominent figures such as former Mayor George Masendu and activist Farai Mageva, was met with swift police action, resulting in their detention at the Kariba Police Headquarters.
The arrests come as tensions rise in Zimbabwe ahead of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit scheduled for August 17. The group had gathered to express solidarity with Timba and the 77 activists who had been detained earlier in June.
Ostallos Siziba, a former CCC MP, confirmed the recent arrests and issued a strong condemnation of the government’s actions. “The government is increasingly suppressing constitutional rights,” Siziba remarked, criticizing the regime for its heavy-handed approach to dissent and protest.
Jameson Timba and the other activists were initially arrested on June 16, 2024, during a commemoration of the Day of the African Child. They were accused of participating in an illegal gathering. The timing of the recent Kariba arrests appears to be a part of a broader crackdown on dissenting voices as the government tightens its grip ahead of the SADC summit.
In a separate incident highlighting the escalating repression, four human rights activists—Namatai Kwekweza, Robson Chere, Samuel Gwenzi, and Vusumuzi Moyo—were removed from a departing plane by security agents. The activists were reportedly on their way to participate in a demonstration against Timba’s detention. The four were held for at least eight hours, with Robson Chere allegedly subjected to torture during their detention. This incident further underscores the increasing hostility towards those speaking out against the government.
The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) have condemned the government’s actions, particularly the reported torture of Chere. The organization has been vocal in criticizing the government’s treatment of critics and activists. Recent disruptions of meetings organized by the Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU) have also been highlighted as evidence of the ongoing clampdown on free expression and political dissent.
The intensifying crackdown on activists and political opponents reflects a troubling trend in Zimbabwean politics, where dissent is increasingly met with severe consequences. As the government gears up for the SADC summit, the treatment of critics and activists remains a critical issue, drawing international attention and concern.
The Kariba arrests and the removal of the human rights activists from the plane signal a troubling escalation in the government’s efforts to stifle opposition and suppress any form of dissent. As the situation develops, continued monitoring and advocacy from human rights organizations will be essential in holding the government accountable and ensuring that the rights of activists and political opponents are upheld.
In other news – South African rapper Da L.E.S in critical condition after stroke
South African rapper Da L.E.S, whose real name is Leslie Mampe, is reported to be in critical condition following a severe stroke he suffered on July 26. The stroke occurred on the same day as his 39th birthday, abruptly overshadowing what was intended to be a day of celebration with a significant health crisis.
In a poignant Instagram post on Sunday, the Mampe family shared the distressing news with fans. The post revealed that Da L.E.S, who was set to celebrate his birthday, ended up in the hospital instead of at his planned party. Read More
