Zanu PF, traditional leaders leading in human rights violation in 7 provinces

The ruling party Zanu PF leaders and traditional leaders are reportedly the leading elements in intimidating people ahead of this year's elections in seven provinces where human rights violations have been recorded.

The Heal Zimbabwe Trust has said three categories of perpetrators were recorded, these include Zanu PF leadership, Traditional Leaders and Councillors.

"Zanu PF leaders registered the highest number of perpetrators with 67% (12 people out of 18). The perpetrators were largely Zanu PF ward chairpersons and its local supporters. Traditional leaders were the second highest constituting 28%. The involvement of traditional leaders is a cause for concern as the constitution forbids them from participating in partisan politics. Local Councillors registered the least with 5%. Victims ranged from opposition supporters, human rights defenders and residents," said the trust.

"Heal Zimbabwe recorded human rights violations in 7 provinces which are Midlands, Mashonaland East, Mashonaland West, Mashonaland Central, Manicaland, Masvingo and Matabeleland South. Mashonaland West, Mashonaland Central, Manicaland and Masvingo recorded the highest number of violations with 3 cases each."

Midlands, Mashonaland East and Matabeleland recorded the least with one case each.