A petition has been launched to pressure President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government to release the 79 political activists who were arrested for allegedly holding an “unsanctioned” political gathering at a private residence in Harare.
The group (now known as the Avondale 79) was arrested on June 16, 2024, at the home of former cabinet Minister Jameson Timba. They have been denied bail by both the Magistrates and the High Court.
According to a petition circulated by Netsai Marova, a democracy and human rights campaigner who has faced a similar ordeal several times, the detained activists have since been subjected to brutal treatment, including police brutality, denial of medical attention, and unlawful detention.
The petition, which has already garnered widespread support, calls for the immediate and unconditional release of the detainees, dropping of all charges, and a thorough investigation into the police brutality incident.
The petition can be accessed on https://chng.it/dRCMbjcb4v.
It also calls for the international human rights defenders to intervene and advocate for the freedom of the accused.
“We urge the Government of Zimbabwe to uphold its constitutional obligations, the international human rights organisations to pressure Zimbabwean authorities and concerned global citizens to show solidarity with the Avondale 79,” reads part of the statement accompanying the petition.
“This petition stands as a united voice against the ongoing persecution of opposition activists and the erosion of democratic freedoms in Zimbabwe.
“We demand immediate action to address this grave injustice and call for systemic change in how peaceful dissent is treated in Zimbabwe.
“By signing this petition, you join the global call for justice, human rights and democracy in Zimbabwe.”
In the petition, Marova cites her firsthand experience with alleged state-sponsored persecution. In 2020, she was allegedly abducted and tortured by state agents.
“The actions by Zimbabwean authorities constitute severe human rights violations and a blatant disregard for constitutional freedoms,” Marova said.
“We demand immediate action to address this grave injustice and call for systemic change in how peaceful dissent is treated in Zimbabwe.”
The 79 activists, which includes minors, women, and persons with disabilities, were detained for attending a lunch gathering at Timba’s private residence. Many have suffered injuries allegedly due to police “brutality,” including fractured limbs.
Five of the accused were released on bail because they were considered minors.
Another citizen, Delina Mutyambizi, a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom, has also initiated a gofundme fundraising for the welfare and medical bills of the 79 activists. The goal is to raise £10 000. During the time of writing, the appeal has raised £1 647.
The appeal can be accessed on… https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-avondale79
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