Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Harare (Agenzia Fides) - Rigged elections, limited freedom of speech and press, media censorship or intimidation and attempts to control the activities of civil society and NGOs continue to violate human rights in many countries of the world. In Zimbabwe the situation is particularly serious. According to the 2011 report of the United Nations for the Protection of Human Rights, compared to the previous year, the abuses in the country were caused by supporters of the Zimbabwe African National Union - Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF) which continue to affect members of other political parties, journalists and civil society activists with violence, arrests and physical abuse that often lead to death. Despite the appeals of President Mugabe and other leaders to stop political violence, security forces continue to act with impunity.
Groups of criminals under the flag ZANU-PF have invaded private property, demolished homes and small markets. For the good of the nation, it is essential that all political protagonists and the security sector follow the directives of the President and immediately suspend such violence, as well as being equally important that President Mugabe insists that the government imposes its guidelines. The United States is committed to promoting universal rights, the creation of partnerships that promote Zimbabwe and help men, women and children to live in decent living conditions, and that human rights are respected and protected. (AP) (Agenzia Fides 19/6/2012)
