Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe
A Harare-based human rights lawyer has voiced strong objections to the unjust arrest of Babongile Ndlovu, a resident of Maboleni Township in Lower Gweru.
Ndlovu was taken into custody by Gweru police under allegations of holding illegal demonstrations and also being active in promoting the rights of the LGBTIQ+ community, accusations that have raised serious concerns regarding discrimination and the handling of her case.
According to the lawyer, Moyo, Ndlovu was arrested while attempting to file a police report after her family had been attacked by individuals wearing Zanu-PF regalia.
Instead of addressing her complaint about the assault, the police allegedly informed her that they had been seeking her arrest based on her sexual orientation.
“It is utterly unfair that Babongile was arrested while trying to report a crime against her family. The police should have been focusing on investigating the attack rather than targeting her for her stance in advocating for the rights of the LGBTIQ+ community,” Moyo stated.
“This situation borders on intimidation and highlights serious flaws in the protection of human rights within our law enforcement system.”
Moyo further questioned the safety of Ndlovu while in police custody, emphasizing that the police’s actions are not only unjust but also pose a significant risk to her well-being.
“By arresting her instead of taking her complaint seriously, the police are failing in their duty to protect citizens. We must ask: where is the justice for Babongile? How can she feel safe when the very people meant to protect her are instead treating her as a criminal?”
The lawyer’s comments underline the ongoing challenges faced by individuals, particularly those belonging to marginalized communities, in seeking justice and protection from violence and discrimination in Zimbabwe.
The case of Babongile Ndlovu calls for urgent attention to ensure that human rights are upheld and that victims of violence are supported rather than persecuted.
derick.khumalo