|
Back to Index
This article participates on the following special index pages:
Index of articles on enforced disappearances in Zimbabwe
Statement
on abduction and continued secret detention of Jestina Mukoko
Zimbabwe
Election Support Network
December 06, 2008
http://www.zesn.org.zw/newsflash_view.cfm?nfid=59
The Zimbabwe
Election Support Network (ZESN), learnt with deep shock and dismay
the violent abduction and secret detention of the ZPP
Executive Director and ZESN Board member Ms Jestina Mukoko. ZESN
joins the long list of organisations and individuals which have
expressed their grave concern and condemnation of the abduction
of Ms Mukoko.
It is distressing to
note that Ms Mukoko, a defenceless woman was forcibly taken by 15
armed men from her home in the early hours of the morning of 3 December
2008, a time when the world in general and Zimbabwe in particular
was commemorating 16 Days of Gender Activism. ZESN is gravely concerned
by the health, welfare and safety of Ms Mukoko and demands not only
her safe return but also that the law enforcement authorities and
judiciary act responsibly to protect her rights, particularly the
right to life and bodily integrity.
It is sad to note that
the state authorities continue to say and do nothing in the face
of these targeted abductions. ZESN will join other organisations
to hold the authorities responsible for any harm she may suffer
as the duty for her safe return lies squarely on the authorities.
We also condemn the reported
action of certain unnamed members of the judiciary who have refused
to take up the matter, and those who only set the matter down for
hearing on Monday despite its urgency and the implications of Ms
Mukoko's continued incommunicado detention. The judiciary is supposed
to comply with the oath of office and constitutionally enshrined
mandate to protect the fundamental rights and freedoms of all citizens
of Zimbabwe without fear or favour.
In addition
we urge the government of Zimbabwe to uphold by the principles that
the country is a signatory and part to which includes the African
Charter on Human and People's Rights, the International
Covenant on Civil and Political Rights which recognizes the protection
to life and physical integrity of a person and detest against the
arbitrary depravation if liberty. ZESN therefore reiterates that
the authorities maintain law and order and protect individual human
rights and bear full responsibility for any harm that may befall
Ms Mukoko.
Ms Mukoko has been working
consistently and lawfully for the advancement of peace in Zimbabwean
communities.
ZESN kindly asks people
to continue to pray for her safety, health and demand her immediate
return.
Tinoziva Bere
ZESN Board Chairperson
Visit the ZESN
fact
sheet
Please credit www.kubatana.net if you make use of material from this website.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons License unless stated otherwise.
TOP
|
