An international non-governmental organisation of public figures noted as elder statesmen, peace activists, and human rights advocates, The Elders, says it is alarmed at reports of more abductions and s_xual abuse of female activists in Zimbabwe.
In a tweet on Tuesday, The Elders urged Zimbabwean authorities to protect citizens’ rights and freedoms and observe the rule of law.
The Elders said in the statement:
We are alarmed at reports of more abductions, torture and s_xual abuse of female activists in Zimbabwe. Especially when COVID-19 threatens the country’s health system, economy and social fabric, all stakeholders must act in good faith to protect lives, freedoms and the rule of law.
The Elders’ concern comes after three MDC Alliance officials, Harare West MP Joanah Mamombe, Cecilia Chimbiri and Netsai Marova were abducted, tortured and s_xually assaulted after taking part in an anti-government demonstration in Warren Park, Harare on Wednesday last week.
The trio was dumped from a moving car at dawn on Friday, two days after being arrested for demonstrating against food shortages.