Zanu PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa has called for the release of pro-democracy activists currently in prison, suggesting that with the recent SADC summit concluded, “nothing remains to disturb.” He admitted that the ruling party has significant influence over the judicial system.
These activists were detained before the summit in anticipation of protests against President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Amnesty International has reported approximately 160 arrests since June.
Mutsvangwa argued that freeing the activists now would prevent further waste of state resources, praising the security forces for effectively managing the situation. He noted that the activists had failed to disrupt public order and suggested that their release would be an appropriate response to their unsuccessful attempts.
Despite criticism from international organizations and foreign governments regarding the crackdown, the SADC leaders did not address these human rights concerns during their recent meeting. Mutsvangwa defended the actions taken, acknowledging the negative impact on Zimbabwe’s reputation but maintaining that the measures were necessary.