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Calls for demilitarisation of state institutions
Zimbabwe Human Rights Association (ZimRights)
August 30, 2010

ZimRights this year exhibited at the Harare Agricultural Show so as to engage members of the public and security service personnel on the need to participate in governance issues and to do so on a non-partisan basis.

ZimRights sought to advocate for demilitarisation of state institutions by enlisting the support of the people in the country to the cause. Through information sharing, ZimRights was able to encourage people to participate in the constitution making process and to ensure that they denounce partisan use of state security agents.

The documentary, "Article VII, Voices for Healing" was screened to share the different views Zimbabweans have on tackling the national healing process. Bearing in mind that people were affected in various ways, many cited that they want the process to start at community level. Some visitors to the stand said that hey would not want a repeat of the violence of 2008 and would want to see provisions in the constitution that safeguard them from a repeat of it. Over 1500 copies of the documentary were distributed at the stand.

Meanwhile, an audio CD on the constitution was used to inform people on the constitution making process, their participation and terms such as devolution, which most people were unsure of. Most people professed ignorance of the process and the progress that COPAC has made to date. ZimRights was able to provide them with information on the process and how best they can get involved. Both the CD and DVD were distributed during the exhibition to ensure that people drive the process from an informed perspective, as the end result should benefit the majority of Zimbabweans and not a few politicians.

ZimRights will continue to utilise such national forums to raise awareness on human rights and other topical governance issues. Many people have been victims of political violence and intimidation and the opportunity provided by ZAS saw the organisation interacting with the police, military and civilians on the issues of violence and how it can be curbed.

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