The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) has condemned the reported bomb attack on the home of opposition politician Job Sikhala, describing it as a “barbaric act of violence” that threatens fundamental freedoms guaranteed under the Constitution.
The explosion is said to have occurred in the early hours of 30 August at Sikhala’s residence, while he was in South Africa launching his autobiography, Footprints in the Chains: The Life Story of Job Sikhala.
The incident follows disturbances in Masvingo during the book’s launch, where some copies were allegedly confiscated and several panellists injured.
In a statement released on Sunday, 08 September, the Commission expressed concern over the attack, stressing that it endangered Sikhala’s family, particularly his children who were reportedly present at the time. Reads the statement:
“The Commission underscores the importance of protecting children’s rights, as enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC) and the Constitution (Section 81).
“Children must be shielded from all forms of violence, abuse, and neglect. Exposure of children to such traumatic events can have enduring psychological and emotional consequences.”
The ZHRC said the blast infringed on several constitutional rights, including the right to life, personal security, property, political choice, and the protection of children.
The ZHRC welcomed the swift response by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) and other state agencies who attended the scene and opened investigations. It called for the probe to be “timely, thorough and impartial,” with perpetrators brought to justice.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring the case and urged authorities to put measures in place to prevent similar incidents.
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