Rights Commission ready to deal with poll cases

Harare, July 14, 2013 (New Ziana) – The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) yesterday said it is ready to deal with abuses that might occur in the run up to the 31 July polls. Zimbabwe this month-end holds what is deemed to be its most tightly contested general election in the history of the country.
The poll marks the dissolution of a five-year old, three party coalition government.
While previous polls have been marked by incidences of violence and cases of alleged human rights abuses, political parties have this year have gone all out in trying to maintain a peaceful environment.

President Mugabe has since last year been emphasising the need for peace and unity during the elections.
The ZHRC said as the country prepared for the much anticipated polls it would monitor the situation and respond to any human rights abuses.

“As the nation prepares for the harmonised elections due to be held on July 31, 2013, we wish to inform the general public that it is within our mandate to observe, monitor, respond to and address any human rights issues which might arise during this period,” said the commission chaired by Mr Jacob Mudenda.

“We further reiterate that we are ready to receive complaints about any possible human rights violations that might occur in the upcoming elections as well as any other general human rights complaints,” it added.

The Commission, established by the coalition government, is yet to deal with any major abuses cases largely due to the fact that it has not been adequately financed.

The ZHRC is mandated to promote awareness of and respect for human rights and other freedoms in the country. It also has power to direct the police to investigate abuses.

The commission urged Zimbabweans to be peaceful during and after the plebiscite, which will usher in a new government.
At least five presidential candidates including President Mugabe, Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai are locking horns during the polls.
Parliamentary and local government elections will also be held concurrently. – New Ziana