Mugabe – in the form of Vigil management team member Fungayi Mabhunu wearing our Mugabe mask – was there carrying a poster reading ‘I want a Russian helicopter’.
The demonstration was part of the seventh monthly Free Zimbabwe Global Protest. While the EU prepares to ease sanctions, we went to the Russian Embassy to underline the need to prevent Mugabe using violence to steal another election. The demonstration, in which we were joined by many MDC supporters, caused quite a security stir as the Embassy is in a sensitive location near Kensington Palace. There was a heavy police presence with appropriately enough a helicopter overhead.
To turn to another matter, it is with great sadness that the Vigil reports the death of Bernard Hukwa, a faithful supporter who was also a member of our sister organization ROHR and the MDC. We were horrified to hear his body was found in the Thames. Bernard was a gentle, thoughtful and caring person and all who knew him are grieving at the loss of such a good friend. He was living on his own in accommodation provided by the Home Office while his asylum case was being processed and we know he was worried about being unable to support his family in Zimbabwe.
Post published in: News
This goes hand in hand in full support for a robust Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) that will prevent arms from fuelling human rights abuses worldwide. Zimbabwe is among countries which severely suppress political opposition activity, impede independent organizing and censor or punish state criticism using the army against its defenceless people. I understand that in 2009 United Nation members (153 countries) voted in favour of forming an Arms Trade Treaty, 19 abstained and one country – only Zimbabwe, voted against. ATT has the potential to prevent human rights abuses, reduce conflict and make the world a safer place. The International Community has repeatedly called out against the Zimbabwe’s arms deals, which are believed that they would be used against Zimbabweans themselves. Examples are :Violence before, during and soon after the 2008 elections, Murambatsvina Operation 2005 and Gukurahundi ( Matabeleland Massacre 1982) just to name a few. China and Russia continue to supply arms and military equipment to the security forces of Zimbabwe.
one wonders why a peace loving nation like Zimbabwe keep on buying army equipment while not concerntrating on our deteriorating economy.Majority want jobs so it is better for us to use money channeled to arm equipment to recapitalise industries. Economy first Zimbabweans otherwise we will be a lough of the world