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Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights condemns attack on magistrate
Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights
November 16, 2001

Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights is concerned about the recent press report that Magistrate Vakai Douglas Chikwekwe of Gokwe Magistrates Court was attacked by a mob at his home on Friday 2 November 2001 for discharging his duties in a manner that did not please the mob which was reported to be suspected ZANU(PF) supporters.

Such an attack seriously undermines the independence of the Judiciary which is the cornerstone of any civilisation and democracy. It also undermines the powers of the courts to administer justice without fear or favour. The conduct of the mob encourages and fosters the culture of lawlessness that has pervaded society.

ZLHR is also dismayed by the failure or omission of the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, and the Ministry of Home Affairs to deal with this case in a decisive way and bring the culprits to book. Such an omission, deliberate or otherwise, grossly undermines the independence of the Judiciary and the fair and impartial administration of justice. It also ultimately leads to the selective application of justice as only the politically weak get tried for wrongs while heavyweights and their perceived gangsters get away with wrongs or crimes.

The Ministries of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs and Home Affairs have a duty to protect the Magistrates and Judiciary at large, so that they can continue to discharge their duties in a free, fair and impartial way. The independence of the Judiciary must be jealously guarded if we are to achieve and maintain a free, democratic, fair and just society.

View the ZLHR fact sheet

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