On the 5th May 2009 Zimbabwean courts ordered the detention of
seventeen previously released Zimbabwean civil society and opposition
activists, including Jestina Mukoko, Concilia Chinanzvavana, Chris
Dhlamini and Ghandi Mudzingwa. The safety of these detainees is of
grave concern particularly given their public exposure of the torture,
humiliation and violent assault they faced when they were first
abducted. It must be recognised that they are in danger and that these
actions place their lives under serious threat.
On the 4th of May
the South African government promised Zimbabwean nationals a 90-day
visitor's permit and the lifting of visa restrictions on crossing the
South African border. We have concerns about its distribution and some
of the details of the arrangement, but this recent decision seems to be
a positive development. However if Zimbabwe continues to violate human
rights in such a manner, South Africa is only dealing with the symptoms
of the problems created by mass migration. The Zimbabwean government
must face consequences; action must be taken by South Africa against
the Mugabe Regime. The new parliament of South Africa can no longer be
seen to be standing by ZANU PF.
A protest will be held outside
of Parliament tomorrow at 1pm during the opening of Parliament. This
protest will make the point that Zimbabwean nationals entering South
Africa are not exclusively economic migrants, but are also refugees who
are unable to return to their home country for fear of doing so.
We encourage media to attend.
For comment or information
contact:
PASSOP Barbara/Braam 0832561140 Zim Solidarity Forum Sipho Theys
0825000811 Crisis in
0844024931