Ambassador Mark Canning said:I am deeply concerned by the arrest and treatment of Munyaradzi Gwisai and 44 fellow activists.
It shows the continuing abuse of the legal system by elements of the state opposed to reform and basic human rights. The charge of treason levelled against the group for apparently watching footage of events in other countries which is readily and publicly available in the media is excessive and politically motivated.
I am particularly disturbed by the failure to follow due process, including allowing the detainees timely access to their legal team and medical treatment, and allegations of torture at the hands of state security agents. These allegations must be investigated and the perpetrators brought to justice. The culture of impunity and state-sponsored abuses must be addressed if Zimbabwe is to embark on genuine healing and move forward. This episode follows a number of other recent cases of abuses.