We call for the immediate and unconditional release from detention of Jenni Williams and Magadonga Mahlangu who were today remanded in custody until the 21 October 2008.
The two human rights defenders were taking part in a peaceful march with Women of Zimbabwe Arise (WOZA) activists to declare a national disaster and to demand food for all Zimbabweans.
The arrests and detention of Jenni Williams and Magadonga Mahlangu violate the spirit of negotiations taking place in Zimbabwe and highlight what appears to be a deliberate targeting of women activists by the Zanu PF authorities. More often than not, women are subjected to cruel and inhumane treatment in detention in Zimbabwe. Torture and human rights abuses continue to take place and cast a shadow of doubt over the workability of the Harare deal.
We therefore call upon the Zimbabwean government to respect women’s rights and the rights of all to freedom of expression and assembly.
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Post published in: News