ZLHR Urges Government to Criminalize Torture, Uphold Victims’ Rights

The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) has urged President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration to take decisive action against torture by making it a criminal offense and ensuring accountability for victims.

In a statement issued in recognition of the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, observed on June 27, the organization criticized the government’s continued failure to hold perpetrators accountable.

The date holds deep significance in Zimbabwe, as it commemorates the victims of the 2008 political unrest that led opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai to withdraw from the presidential run-off. That period saw widespread violence, reportedly backed by the State, which claimed the lives of over 300 opposition supporters—none of whom have received justice to date.

ZLHR expressed alarm over continued reports of torture and abuse by security forces, particularly targeting political detainees.

“In Zimbabwe, we remain gravely concerned by ongoing reports of torture in detention facilities, often involving members of the security sector. These acts blatantly violate constitutional protections, especially Section 53, which clearly prohibits torture,” the ZLHR said.

The organization condemned what it described as a culture of impunity, highlighting the authorities’ reluctance to investigate or prosecute those responsible.

Adding to its concerns, ZLHR pointed out that despite repeated calls from civil society and recommendations from various UN member states, Zimbabwe has yet to ratify the UN Convention Against Torture or implement significant reforms to prevent such abuses.

“Ratifying the Convention Against Torture and similar international treaties would be a meaningful step toward preventing this inhumane practice,” the statement continued.

ZLHR emphasized that it is the government’s duty to not only prohibit torture but also to provide redress for survivors and hold those responsible fully accountable.

“Torture is among the most inhumane acts one person can commit against another. It must never be normalized or ignored, and those who engage in it must face justice,” the organization concluded.

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