The abduction and abuse of Rural Teachers Union President Obert Masaraure in Harare on 6 June demands a swift, thorough and transparent investigation by the competent authorities.
This event follows arrests and detention of members of Non-governmental organisations and trade unionists in Zimbabwe.
The perception that civil society leaders are harassed and intimidated is harmful to the reputation of the country. Due legal processes should be followed, and citizens’ civic and constitutional rights respected.
Civil society has an important role to play in contributing to the future development of Zimbabwe.
It needs to have the space to contribute to the reform agenda without fear and be able to engage and hold to account Government.
The European Union will follow these developments closely.
FULL TEXT: EU Speaks On Abduction Of Rural Teachers’ Union President
Abducted and Tortured
Torturing of activists and citizens is a classic Victorian practice designed then to silence voices of justice and calling for a democracy deepening culture in society. Infact for receptive and progressive governments civil society alerts governments on the threats and benefits to democratic practice.