A decade after Itai Dzamara’s disappearance, activists are intensifying pressure on the Zanu PF government to explain its lack of action. Prominent figures demand justice and transparency, emphasizing the detrimental impacts on the victim’s family and the broader implications for human rights in Zimbabwe. The government has yet to ratify significant international conventions, causing further concern among advocates for justice.
A decade has passed since the disappearance of Itai Dzamara, a notable human rights activist and journalist, and there is increasing pressure on the Zanu PF government to provide clarity regarding this case. Activists have criticized the ruling party for its inaction, with some even labeling it as a terrorist organization that must be held accountable for Dzamara’s fate. Last seen on March 9, 2015, Dzamara was allegedly abducted by state security agents from his home in Harare, and his case remains unresolved.
Arnold Tsunga, an acclaimed human rights lawyer, has urged President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government to publicly address its failure to bring those responsible for Dzamara’s abduction to justice. Tsunga emphasized that the lack of progress adversely affects not only human rights activists but also the family of the victim, who experiences ongoing trauma and uncertainty. He indicated that this situation undermines the rule of law and erodes public confidence in the justice system.
Former MP Job Sikhala asserted that the Zanu PF government is aware of Dzamara’s whereabouts and is obligated to inform the public about his disappearance. He stated, “It is the duty of every government to protect its citizens,” and underscored the need for accountability regarding Dzamara’s fate, which is a significant public concern.
Obert Masaraure, president of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe, made a stark statement about Zanu PF, declaring it a terrorist entity. He reiterated that they will continue to demand Dzamara’s return and warned that those behind his abduction would eventually face consequences for their actions.
Attempts to receive comments from government officials were unsuccessful, although Zanu PF’s Director of Communication, Farai Marapira, claimed that the burden of proof lies with the accusers. Marapira rejected the allegations against his party, asserting their commitment to the law and denouncing attempts to exploit the situation for personal gain.
Zimbabwe has yet to sign or ratify the United Nations International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, despite numerous calls from UN member states. This treaty has been in effect since 2010, and advocacy for its ratification continues. In the previous year, human rights lawyer Obey Shava, represented by well-known attorney Tendai Biti, brought a case against the Mnangagwa administration in the High Court, arguing for the ratification of the treaty and denouncing the government’s systematic pattern of enforced disappearances and abuse against various individuals.
The ongoing demands from various activists and human rights defenders highlight the urgency for the Zimbabwean government to address the concerns surrounding Itai Dzamara’s disappearance. The lack of accountability and transparency from the ruling party continues to evoke significant public interest and frustration. With calls for justice and adherence to international human rights conventions, it is clear that the call for action is not only a matter of accountability but also a necessity for restoring public trust in the governance of Zimbabwe.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
