Temba Mliswa not under investigation for human rights abuses

The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission has clarified that former Hurungwe West National Assembly representative Mr Temba Mliswa is not under its investigation for alleged human rights abuses.

ZHRC deputy chairperson Dr Ellen Sithole said Mr Mliswa was the complaint in the case where it was previously alleged that workers at his Spring Farm were abused.

Said Dr Sithole: "To set the record straight, the ZHRC hereby explains as follows; the Commission received a complaint from Mr Goodwill Zinyama and others. Mr Zinyama lodged the complaint in his capacity as the farm manager as well as Mr Temba Mliswa's election agent.

"He, therefore, lodged the complaint on his behalf and others at Spring Farm. He alleged that a group of assailants assaulted, intimidated, harassed and caused strife among Spring Farm workers because the lessee of the farm Mr Mliswa was contesting parliamentary elections as an independent candidate."

She also said: "Investigations by the ZHRC revealed at least six people who were alleged to have committed the human rights violations. Based on the findings, the ZHRC, therefore, proceeded to refer the matter to the Commissioner-General of Police to immediately investigate the criminal rights violations which occurred at Spring Farm and ensure that all the alleged perpetrators are made to account for their criminal activities.

"Mr Temba Mliswa was not identified in this case as the assailant, but he was, in fact, by extension, a complainant."