The ICJ has called on the United Nations to assist Zimbabwe probe rights abusesThe ICJ told the UN Human Rights Council last week that Zimbabwes judiciary had been severely compromised by the intrusions into its independence and impartiality.
President Robert Mugabes Zanu (PF) often uses its partisan control of the judicial system to repress and harass human rights defenders, journalists, lawyers and opposition members.
Lack of respect for the rule of law, endemic corruption and systematic abuse of power by government officials and security forces also undermine Zimbabwes human rights situation.
The ICJ urges the Council to establish a comprehensive mandate a separate group of independent experts on Zimbabwe – to help the Government of Zimbabwe investigate past and on-going human rights violations, prevent violence and boost full observance of human rights and their integration throughout the implementation of justice reforms, the Geneva-based ICJ said.
It noted that despite last Septembers signing of the Global Political Agreement by Zimbabwes three main political parties, the coalition government has largely failed to protect and promote human rights and the rule of law.
The general human rights situation has remained volatile due to consistent intimidation, harassment, attacks against lawyers, journalists, human rights defenders, Movement for Democratic Change members and all persons perceived to be critical of Mugabe.
Impunity for human rights violations persists in the vast majority of cases, particularly regarding the bulk of unaddressed gross human rights violations committed before, during and after the 2008 elections.
More than 200 people mostly MDC supporters were killed during political violence that accompanied the disputed presidential elections in June 2008.
Post published in: Politics