Interviewed youths commended the new constitution for provisions that ensure arrested persons are entitled to human dignity and the chance to sue police in their personal capacities in the event of violation of their rights.
Under the Declaration of Rights, the new constitution states that “any person who has been illegally arrested or detained is entitled to compensation from the person responsible for the arrest or detention”.
The Declaration of Rights however states that “a law may protect the following persons from liability under this section; a judicial officer acting in a judicial capacity reasonably and in good faith; any other public officer acting reasonably and in good faith and without culpable ignorance or negligence”.
Any person who is arrested “must be permitted, without delay at the expense of the State, to contact their spouse or partner, or a relative or legal practitioner, or anyone else of their choice and must be treated humanely and with respect for their inherent dignity”.
Naume Chikazhe (20) from Seke said: “I commend the new constitution for its provisions that guarantee the respect of human rights by the police. For a long time, police have been violating the rights of arrested persons. Many cases of people being tortured at police stations were being swept under the carpet but I think they will be exposed now that the new constitution is in place.”
Simeon Murungu (26) said: “Police should show respect for the human rights enshrined in the new constitution and desist from their practices of torturing and mistreating suspects. These provisions should be adequately publicised so that more people become aware of their rights.”
Tatenda Musulumadi (19) from Zengeza 3, commended the new constitution for guaranteeing freedom of assembly and association.
“Police should respect that because of late we have heard cases of people being arrested for associating themselves with certain organisations.”
Nomatter Garabha (18) from Warren Park said there was need for everyone to respect the supreme law of the land regardless of their political affiliation.
“No one is above the law and I hope that Zimbabwe is going to shift from the current scenario where there are people who act in defiance of the current constitution knowing that they are untouchable. We cannot have selective application of the law,” she said.
Moregood Gwekwerere (32) from Zengeza 4 said: “This constitution was made by the people and I believe it is the people who called for respect of their rights and therefore, there is need to ensure it is well respected and no one should be allowed to violate the constitution in any way. The police must respect the will of the people.”
Darrel Havaguti of Ruwa said: “It ushers in a new era for the ordinary people because people have been guaranteed the right to demonstrate. The local authorities were taking advantage of citizens because we could not voice our concerns.”
Dorcas Gwenga (37) trader from Mbare said if the provisions of the constitution were implemented, Zimbabweans would be guaranteed a level political playing field which would promote accountability and a better life. “It is a good document especially on people’s political rights. If implemented, it is the best start to solving our political problems. I think it is the cornerstone of development especially for women and children, because it is women oriented and for that I am happy.”
Post published in: News