‘Safeguard child rights’

The Zimbabwe National Council for the Welfare of Children said political parties must observe national laws and desist from recruiting children under the age of 18 to take part in any political activity. “We therefore call on all political parties to abide by the provisions of the supreme law to ensure a safe environment for our children,” the child rights organisation said in a statement.

“We strongly condemn any closure of schools or disruption of school lessons for children to be forced to attend political rallies.”
The child rights organisation also implored the media to report on any violence which may affect children during election campaigns.

The organisation also appealed for the holding of a peaceful election under an environment that would promote, protect and respect the rights of children. “Violence leaves an indelible memory on the children of Zimbabwe who are the most vulnerable in our population,” the child rights organisation said. “As children see violence, they grow up being intolerant of differences and with the view that violence resolves conflicts. Such a mindset results in an undesired enculturation of violence in our society.”