For many years, Zimbabweans have suffered immensely under an oppressive regime. The current president of Zimbabwe, Emmerson Mnangagwa, is a significant part of this burden, having been accused of several human rights abuses. These allegations are a serious concern, as the right to a safe and secure existence is a fundamental human entitlement.

Among these reported violations include the abduction of human rights defenders and activists. These incidents were not isolated but part of a larger pattern demonstrating the ruthless operation of Mnangagwa's administration. No one should live in fear for raising their voice against cruelty. Henceforth, it has become crucial to address this crisis for the beleaguered citizens of Zimbabwe.

It's high time we urged Zimbabweans to exert pressure on President Mnangagwa and his administration to cease these inhumane atrocities. It’s crucial for Zimbabweans to be able to cast a vote that affects significant changes, leading to a democratic process that respects the will of the individuals. A world that responds to human rights abuses with silence is one that fails its humanity.

We cannot stand by while these abuses occur, and therefore we must act. Sign this petition to demand a fair democratic process, protection of human rights, and accountability for all acts of state violence in Zimbabwe.

The "Avondale 78" refers to a group of 78 citizens, including former Senator Jameson Timba, who were arrested on June 16, 2024, in the Avondale suburb of Harare while attending a peaceful gathering at Timba's residence. They were accused of holding an "unauthorized gathering" and were subsequently detained.

Here are some key details about the incident:

Arrest and Detention:

The 78 individuals, including 29 women and a one year old baby were arrested and detained for allegedly participating in an unauthorized gathering. Reports suggest that they were assaulted during the arrest, with one woman reportedly having a broken leg.

Bail Denial: Despite bail being a constitutional right, their bail hearing was delayed and ultimately denied. The court ruled that the activists were likely to commit similar offenses if released on bail.

International Condemnation: The arrests and subsequent denial of bail have drawn international condemnation from human rights organizations and the diaspora community. They have called for the immediate release of the detainees and criticized the Zimbabwean authorities for undermining democratic freedoms.

Escalating Repression: There have been reports of escalating violence and threats from government officials. President Mnangagwa and other officials have made statements indicating that those causing trouble would be dealt with harshly.

The situation remains tense, with ongoing protests and calls for the release of the Avondale 781. It's a significant case highlighting the challenges faced by those advocating for democratic freedoms in Zimbabwe.

Election interference

Emmerson Mnangagwa is facing allegations of election interference in the region, particularly in Mozambique, Namibia and Botswana.

Mozambique

Allegations: Mnangagwa's administration has been accused of meddling in Mozambique's elections to support the ruling FRELIMO party. Reports suggest that ZANU-PF agents were involved in rigging the elections to ensure a favorable outcome for FRELIMO.
Impact: This interference has raised concerns about the credibility of Mozambique's electoral process and has strained relations between the two countries.

Namibia

The Popular Democratic Party (PDP) in Namibia has raised concerns over a US$60 million tender awarded to Ren-Form CC by the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN). This company, linked to controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo, has been contracted to print ballot papers for the upcoming presidential and national elections scheduled for November 27.

Chivayo, who secured a similar tender for Zimbabwe's elections last year, has been associated with allegations of corruption and irregularities. The Zimbabwean elections faced criticism from foreign observer missions for not meeting international standards, with reports of ballot papers arriving late in opposition strongholds and some areas casting votes overnight.

To prevent a similar situation, Namibia's PDP has written to the ECN challenging the tender awarded to Ren-Form CC, expressing concerns about the integrity and credibility of the elections.

Botswana

Former Botswana President Ian Khama has raised serious concerns about Zanu-PF's alleged interference in Botswana's upcoming elections. Khama claims that Zanu-PF has deployed agents to rig the elections in favor of the current President, Mokgweetsi Masisi.

Khama described Zanu-PF as a "regional cancer" undermining democracy by meddling in the electoral processes of neighboring countries1. He pointed out that Zanu-PF's tactics have already been seen in Mozambique and South Africa, where similar allegations of election rigging have been made.

The allegations have added a layer of complexity to Botswana's political landscape, with opposition parties and regional bodies closely monitoring the situation.

Now is the time to cast your vote through this petition.

Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa must step down.