Online Reporter
Herald Correspondent
Zimbabwe has taken a historic step in advancing human rights by officially abolishing the death penalty, Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Ziyambi Ziyambi told the High-Level Segment of the 58th Session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland, yesterday.
Minister Ziyambi said the Death Penalty Abolition Act, enacted on December 31, 2024, aligns Zimbabwe’s legal framework with international human rights standards.
“The right to life is the cornerstone of all human rights.
“This milestone strengthens our justice system, ensuring it is built on dignity, equity and respect for the sanctity of human life.”
The new law removes all references to capital punishment from Zimbabwe’s statutes and, most particularly, as a sentence for aggravated murder by a adult male, the one crime where the Constitution still allowed Parliament the option to pass a law allowing a death penalty, an option Parliament has now renounced.
Those previously sentenced to death will be resentenced under a system that prioritises fairness and human dignity. The abolition Act allows sentences of between 20 years and life imprisonment for aggravated murder, depending on circumstances.
Zimbabwe has also introduced major judicial reforms to improve access to justice.
Courts and the Legal Aid Directorate have been decentralised and a performance management system has been implemented to enhance judicial efficiency.
Additionally, the Integrated Electronic Case Management System is being expanded to lower courts, improving legal processes.
“We are committed to ensuring that justice is not only accessible but also efficient and effective,” said Minister Ziyambi.
The Minister also addressed Zimbabwe’s climate challenges, which have been worsened by El Niño-induced droughts. To mitigate the impact, the Government is implementing the Presidential Climate-Proof Agriculture Production Scheme, which prioritises mechanisation and irrigation.
As a result, Zimbabwe has achieved self-sufficiency in wheat production and was awarded the 2024 Africa Food Prize for its efforts in sustainable agriculture and food security.
Regionally, Zimbabwe continues to play a leadership role as the current SADC Chair.
Minister Ziyambi said the country remained committed to fulfilling its international human rights obligations.
Zimbabwe will submit its required periodic in March and will host the Working Group on Violence Against Women and Girls in August.
Minister Ziyambi condemned the unilateral coercive measures imposed by Western nations on Zimbabwe saying they negatively impacted Zimbabwe’s economy and the well-being of its people.
“These measures violate the UN Charter, and we strongly denounce them,” he said while calling for their immediate and unconditional lifting.
Minister Ziyambi reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s dedication to justice, human rights and sustainable development.
“In unity, we can overcome adversity and emerge stronger,” he said.
