President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s ruling party has dismissed as “rubbish” a statement by Western diplomats warning Zimbabwe’s government not to use the COVID-19 pandemic as a pretext to stifle citizens' rights.
The statement was delivered while more than a dozen citizens are in hiding for fear of persecution or prosecution for organizing an anti-government protest.
Seven countries, including the U.S., have urged Mnangagwa to keep the inauguration pledge he made in 2018 to respect human rights. Western diplomats joined forces in a statement saying their countries would continue to assist Zimbabwe in addressing the humanitarian crisis caused by recurring droughts and the COVID-19 pandemic.
“But COVID-19 must not be used as an excuse to restrict citizens’ fundamental freedoms. Freedom of the press, of opinion, of expression, and of assembly are all universally recognized human rights and are guaranteed by the Zimbabwean constitution. The government also has a responsibility to investigate and prosecute those responsible for violating human rights,” said the seven embassies in their diplomatic message.
Zimbabwe’s Information Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said Saturday the government would not comment on the group's statement by the U.S., Germany, Poland, Britain, Canada, Norway and the Netherlands.
FILE - Tafadzwa Mugwadi, spokesman for the ruling Zanu PF party, seen here July 21, 2020, in Harare, dismissed concerns by Western diplomats as “rubbish,” saying they had no right to lecture Zimbabwe about human rights. (Columbus Mavhunga/VOA)
Tafadzwa Mugwadi, a spokesman for Zimbabwe’s ruling Zanu-PF party, dismissed the statement by Western diplomats.
“This is just a piece of rubbish. Nothing new except the usual rhetoric from culpable players whose hand has always been visible as far as disturbances in this country are concerned. Under what circumstances or basis do they have to instruct the government or people of Zimbabwe to stop from blaming them? How are they immune when they are equally blaming the government? They are blaming a government on whose neck they imposed these illegal sanctions. It’s just a bunch of nonsense,” Mugwadi said.
Zimbabwe’s political opposition and rights groups say Mnangagwa is moving away from his promise not to follow the playbook of his predecessor, long-time leader, the late Robert Mugabe, whose 37-year rule was littered with human rights abuses.
The head of Human Rights Watch in southern Africa, Dewa Mavhinga, says the government must investigate the claims instead of dismissing them.
Dewa Mavhinga, the southern Africa Director at Human Rights Watch, seen here Aug. 29, 2020, in Harare, says the Zimbabwe government must investigate claims of rights abuses by state agents. (Columbus Mavhunga/VOA)
“This is very important that the Zimbabwe government demonstrates that it respects human rights. Without this demonstration for respect for human rights, all efforts to revive the economy, for international re-engagement, will be wasted because no one wants to do business with a country that does not respect rights, a country that brutalizes its own citizens, a country that looks the other way when there are obvious cases of abductions and torture of citizens by state agents,” Mavhinga said.
A hashtag #ZimbabweanLivesMatter is trending on social media, but the government insists there is no crisis.
Rights groups and the opposition say the government is looking for a number of pro-democracy activists who are in hiding, saying they fear being arrested for organizing an anti-government protest, which security forces thwarted in July.
Journalist Hopewell Chin’ono and opposition leaders Jacob Ngaruvhume and Job Sikhala are in prison on charges of stoking violence ahead of the march against poverty and corruption, which was to take place July 31.
Earlier this month, South Africa, which is the current chair of the African Union, sent envoys to engage with both the government of Zimbabwe and relevant stakeholders, to “identify possible ways in which South Africa can assist Zimbabwe.” However, they left after meeting only with President Mnangagwa.
Info News
Mesothelioma Lawyer: Asbestos Compensation Guide
Mesothelioma Lawyer: Asbestos Compensation Guide
Mesothelioma is a serious cancer often linked to asbestos exposure. Many people were exposed to asbestos at work, in military service, in construction, in factories, or through old building materials. A mesothelioma lawyer helps victims and families seek compensation from companies responsible for asbestos exposure.
An experienced asbestos attorney understands how to investigate exposure history. Many asbestos cases involve events that happened decades ago. A lawyer may review employment records, military service records, job sites, product history, and medical records to identify where exposure occurred.
What Is Mesothelioma Compensation?
Mesothelioma compensation may come from lawsuits, settlements, asbestos trust funds, or veterans’ benefits. Compensation may help cover medical bills, cancer treatment, lost income, travel expenses, pain and suffering, and family financial support.
Many companies that used asbestos created trust funds for victims. A mesothelioma lawyer can help determine whether you qualify for an asbestos exposure claim or trust fund payment.
Why Legal Help Matters
Asbestos cases are complex. Different states may have different deadlines for filing a claim. A lawyer can help file paperwork correctly and make sure important deadlines are not missed.
Final Thoughts
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, speaking with a mesothelioma lawyer may help you understand your rights and possible compensation options.
The Rise of Remote Work: How Digital Jobs Are Reshaping the Future of Employment
Remote work has transformed from a temporary trend into a permanent part of the global economy. Millions of employees across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, and Zimbabwe are now working from home or operating fully online businesses. Advances in internet technology, cloud computing, video conferencing platforms, and digital collaboration tools have made it possible for companies to operate efficiently without traditional office spaces.
rnrn
Before the global shift toward remote work, many businesses believed employees needed to be physically present in offices to remain productive. However, companies quickly discovered that remote teams could often perform just as effectively while reducing operational expenses. Businesses are now saving money on office rent, utilities, transportation allowances, and infrastructure costs. Employees also benefit from flexible schedules, reduced commuting stress, and improved work-life balance.
rnrn
The technology industry has been one of the biggest drivers of remote employment growth. Software developers, cybersecurity analysts, digital marketers, virtual assistants, content creators, and customer support professionals are among the many workers thriving in online environments. Freelancing platforms and remote job marketplaces are connecting companies with skilled workers from around the world, creating opportunities for talented individuals regardless of location.
rnrn
In Africa, remote work is creating new economic opportunities for young professionals. Many entrepreneurs and freelancers in Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa are working with international clients while earning income in foreign currencies. This shift is helping reduce unemployment challenges while supporting digital entrepreneurship and online education initiatives.
rnrn
Despite its advantages, remote work also presents challenges. Employees sometimes struggle with isolation, distractions at home, and difficulties separating work life from personal life. Businesses must also address cybersecurity risks, communication barriers, and employee engagement concerns. Many organizations are now adopting hybrid work models that combine office collaboration with remote flexibility.
rnrn
Experts believe remote work will continue growing as internet access improves and digital transformation expands globally. Businesses that adapt successfully to flexible work environments are expected to remain competitive in the modern economy. Workers with digital skills, strong communication abilities, and experience using online collaboration tools are likely to remain in high demand for years to come.
rn
