By Staff Reporter
The continued detention of Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activists has drawn international attention, with politicians demanding their release.
This follows a demonstration and petition by Zimbabweans in the United Kingdom (UK), urging the British Prime Minister to secure the release of the activists arrested on June 16th for allegedly participating in an unsanctioned gathering and disorderly conduct. Despite two bail applications being denied by both the Magistrate Court and High Court, the activists remain in custody.
British parliamentarians recently raised the issue of the detained CCC activists in parliament, pressing the UK government to intervene with the administration of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Lord John Oates, a British liberal peer, appealed to the UK government in the House of Lords to firmly express its support for the 77 detained CCC activists and to advocate for their release.
“My Lords, does the Minister agree that respect for human rights and the rule of law are essential pillars of any free society, both domestically and internationally?” Oates inquired.
“The government is aware of the brutal arrest and detention of Zimbabwean opposition leader Jameson Timba and 78 of his supporters, including a mother with a one-year-old child. They have been held for 39 days in appalling conditions and denied their constitutional right to bail by a captured judiciary.
Will the Minister confirm that the new government stands with all individuals defending their fundamental rights? Will he instruct his ministerial colleagues to forcefully convey this message to the government of Zimbabwe?” Oates asked.
In response, Justice Minister Lord Ponsonby of Shulbrede agreed to consider Oates’ suggestion that relevant ministers clearly communicate their stance on the significance of human rights globally.
“I am not fully informed on this matter, but I will undoubtedly follow up on your proposal for the appropriate ministers to clarify their position on the importance of human rights worldwide, including the example you provided,” he stated.
