BOCISCOZ Press Statement On Demonstrations In Zimbabwe

People arrested during protests wait to appear at the magistrate's court in Harare PIC: Philimon Bulawayo/Reuters
People arrested during protests wait to appear at the magistrate's court in Harare PIC: Philimon Bulawayo/Reuters

Botswana Civil Society Solidarity Coalition for Zimbabwe (BOCISCOZ), a twenty-six (26) member civil society organisation grouping in Botswana, acting in solidarity with the people of Zimbabwe, expresses serious concern and condemns in the strongest sense, the current unfolding violent political situation in Zimbabwe.

On Monday January 14, 2019, protesters took to the streets to demonstrate and raise their concerns about the 150% increase in fuel prices announced on Saturday.

Communication with some civil society organisations in Zimbabwe, namely, Matabeleland Collective and Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiZC), reveal that the demonstrations have been met with resistance from the security forces, and have resulted in injuries, arrests and life loss of some members of the public. 

Editor's Comment
Human rights are sacred

It highlights the need to protect rights such as access to clean water, education, healthcare and freedom of expression.President Duma Boko, rightly honours past interventions from securing a dignified burial for Gaoberekwe Pitseng in the CKGR to promoting linguistic inclusion. Yet, they also expose a critical truth, that a nation cannot sustainably protect its people through ad hoc acts of compassion alone.It is time for both government and the...

Have a Story? Send Us a tip
arrow up