Source: Community Tolerance Reconciliation and Development (COTRAD)
Results of a Community Tolerance Reconciliation and Development (COTRAD) survey conducted in Masvingo during the first half of 2016 shows an influx in cases of Politically Motivated Human Rights Violations (PMHRV).
PMHRVs ranging from unlawful arrests by police and CIO, disruption of meetings by youth and and army personnel, assault within political parties, dethronement of traditional leaders, arson, farm invasions, citizen displacement, intimidation, threat, forced contribution and participation, politicization of food aid, Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM) and the vocational training of youth by village heads and councillors skyrocketed in comparison to the same period in 2015.
The survey conducted with the help of COTRAD Peace Committees and Action for Accountability Groups in the 7 districts of Masvingo shows a 61% increase from the 201 recorded in between January and June 2015.
Intimidation, threats, forced participation and forced contribution skyrocketed in rural communities mainly between February and May as citizens and teachers were forced by councillors, village heads and ZANU PF youth to contribute $1 and $3 respectively and participate during the 92nd birthday celebrations of President Mugabe held in Masvingo on 27 February 2016 as well as the ZANU PF one million men march held on 25 May 2016.
Politicisation of food aid by councillors, village heads and MPs increased from 32 in 2015 to 403 in 2016 due to the cycle el-Niño induced drought which ravaged the province and declared a state of emergency by President Mugabe in February 2016.
Sporadic cases of politicisation of BEAM assistance and vocational training of rural youth by councillors and youth officers were recorded.
89% of the human rights violation cases were predominantly committed by village heads, Councillors, ZANU PF ward chairpersons army and police officials and notable is the victimization of human rights defender Prosper Tiringindi.
11% by youth who were predominantly architects of meeting disruptions during MDC T and ZANU PF meetings as well as Local government bill.
Invasions of Tangaat Hullets Estate were predominantly architected by high ranking government officials in the army and police service while the invasion of Cresta Ibeka farm was by ZANU PF provincial Chairperson Chadzamira.
No action was taken in 91% of the cases while the remainder was referred to National Peace and Reconciliation Commission (NRPC), Minister of provincial affairs and court.
Depoliticisation and human rights training of the army, police, youth officers, village heads is recommended while strengthening of capacities of peace committees and amplifying citizen voice in selection process of government programs.
Source: Community Tolerance Reconciliation and Development (COTRAD)