UPDATE: Demo and Petition confirmed by Diplomatic Police Unit for 14:00 on Thursday 30th May 2024.
**This will be subject to the UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, calling for a General Election NOW CONFIRMED for 4th July 2024, and thus drastically increasing the 'activity' around 10 Downing Street including a "media circus" of reporters and photographers in the next week or so. Therefore we have also alerted the Zimbabwe Desk at the FCDO to receive the Petition as well.
AS ZIMBABWEANS BASED ACTIVISTS IN THE UK PLAN FOR A DEMONSTRATION IN LONDON, UK.
The Zimbabwean President must not sign the new law proposed; which is the PVO Private Voluntary Organisation Amendment Bill. #STOPPVOBILL
Responding to the PVO hearings which took place last week in Zimbabwe, Basil Kamombe a UK based Activist has condemned the violence which likely shows that a number of people present were bussed-in by Zanu-PF ‘elites’ and politicians. Cases of violence were recorded during the hearings.
“This bill is disastrous and especially a time where the Zimbabwean government is just passing laws that are shrinking the democratic space in Zimbabwe.”
How would something that likely benefit the country, but have a group of people singing
“Asingade ngaabude muZimbabwe” meaning if you don’t, want leave Zimbabwe or slogans like “tengesa uone mashura” (sellout and see what happens) it is the language of Zanu-PF and the language of violence to instil fear to those against the Bill,”
We managed to track down other Activists who have joined hands to organise a number of demonstrations in London including petitions for the international community to see the injustice of the constitution taking place in Zimbabwe. Greatman Makipa shared his concern on the impact of the PVO Bill on how it will be made difficult for Human Rights Organisations to be registered in Zimbabwe, ZHRO also expressed their concern as the support coming through for development fund in Zimbabwe is close to a billion dollars and Zimbabwe will likely lose all that funding because of this absurd law if it is passed, these organisations have been helping the lives of many Zimbabweans since the government does no little help to its own citizens.
Ronald Mutumbi also made his comment on how about 4 members of the CCC were arrested in Masvingo for disrupting PVO Bill hearings of which the Zanu-PF youth militia, who are the real culprits, are walking scot free. It is evident that the Bill itself is a ‘criminal’ bill to the Citizens who are already suffering in the hands of the regime. As part of the demonstration we have Human Rights Activists who will be joining in who shared their concern over the ongoing constitution injustice in Zimbabwe.
Like Michelle Nokuthaba Mpofu, Diana Machingauta, Tendai Christian Mapfumo, Xoliso Sithole, Simbarashe Jingo, who are based in the UK who are fearlessly speaking out against the regime which is endangering their lives. We also saw Job Sikhala was threatened last week with Zanu-PF government to charge him with the Patriotic Act after speaking at the Human Rights Summit in Geneva, Switzerland.
The National Association of Non-Governmental Organisations made this statement 20th May 2024 as an image {See large IMAGE in a new Screen} first appearing on Twitter/X: https://x.com/nangozimbabwe/status/1792560362526536117
"The Bill ENDANGERS the FREEDOM OF ASSOCIATION by creating a HIGHLY RESTRICTIVE REGULATORY REGIME for Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOS) that serves to Impede Rather Than Enable freedom of association. Key provisions of the Bill restrict the INDEPENDENCE of NGOs and subject them to Excessive and Unwarranted Controls. Significantly, the Bill gives the parent ministry an overreaching mandate, which is under the firm control of the Government. In sum, the Bill will SEVERELY LIMIT CIVIL SOCIETY SPACE AND IMPEDE THE ACTIVITIES OF NGOS, which not only play an important role in democratic development and nation-building but also render invaluable support and services to the people of Zimbabwe." https://www.nangozim.org
Women's Academy for Leadership and Political Excellence {WALPE} 18th May 2024 from their Press Release. {See Appendix 3 for Full Statement} https://x.com/WalpeAcademy/status/1791753039864356939
WALPE is deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of all citizens, particularly women who have been disproportionately affected by this violence considering that is it not the first time that public hearings by Parliament have degenerated into chaos. Going forward, WALPE appeals to Parliament and the police to guarantee public safety and the protection of all citizens ensuring their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are respected.
ZHRMP – (17th May 2024 {See Appendix 4 for their Full Press Statement}), the Zimbabwe Human Rights Monitors Platform bore witness to a distressing display of authoritarianism at the New Ambassador Hotel in Harare during the Private Voluntary Organization (PVO) Bill hearing. What should have been a democratic forum for diverse opinions to be voiced and deliberated upon was instead hijacked by zealous ZANU-PF supporters. These forces, aided and abetted by the very parliamentarians entrusted with upholding the democratic process, callously silenced and verbally assaulted anyone daring to challenge the provisions of the PVO bill.
Passionate Fuza, Communications Officer of Zimbabwe Human Rights Monitors Platform {ZHRMP} Stated on 17th May 2024 regarding the PVO Hearings ; https://x.com/ProtectHRDs/status/1791453672708141498 Passionate Fuza tries to reason with the Zanu PF Thugs.
The Communications Officer, Passionate Fuza, courageously sought to express her genuine concerns regarding the PVO Bill. Yet, her noble attempt at constructive dialogue was met with a torrent of verbal violence, and repugnant hate speech. Denied the opportunity to fully articulate her views on the bill, the proceedings quickly descended into chaos, forcing an abrupt end at 2:30pm.
“In the face of the violent disruptions and the grave implications of the PVO Bill, we resolutely condemn the reprehensible verbal assault on Passionate Fuza. This cowardly act not only trampled upon the principles of peaceful democratic engagement but also engenders an atmosphere of toxicity and hatred within our society”.
Many other International Organisations also have expressed serious concerns regarding Zanu PF’s PVO Bill, Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Director for East and Southern Africa, in their Press Statement on 3rd February 2023 said: https://www.amnesty.org.zw/2023/02/zimbabwe-president-mnangagwa-must-reject-proposed-new-law-that-threatens-rights-and-civic-space/ {See Appendix 1 for their full article and backgrounds since 2021 - Appendix 2}
“The PVO Amendment Bill in its current form threatens civic society organizations working on human rights in Zimbabwe. The proposed bill, if it becomes law, will have dire consequences, including restricting civic space and access to humanitarian support services in Zimbabwe as it will immediately render all Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), not registered as PVOs, illegal”
The Commonwealth Lawyers Association in their Press Statement {26th April 2023} {Full Statement Appendix 5 as referenced on Twitter/X: https://x.com/daddyhope/status/1652903920996368384
“CLA considers the PVO Bill to be inconsistent with the Constitution of Zimbabwe stifling Freedom of Association and Freedom of Expression. The intrusive powers contained within the PVO Bil will inhibit and curtal legitimate activities of civic society operating through private voluntary organisations, putting at risk the valuable social and economic contributions of such organisations.”
At the Commonwealth Law Ministers Meeting in Mauritius in November 2022 Law Ministers of the ‘Commonwealth approved the “Commonwealth Principles on Freedom of Expression and the role of the media in good governance”, The CLA had assisted in the preparation of those Media Principles which state;
“Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democracy and underpins good governance, public accountability and respect for all human rights.”
The PVO Bill will give the government more control on CSO’s and the power to arrest the CSO’s employees for doing their work. The Activists in the diaspora strongly condemn this PVO Bill that it must not be signed into law. There has been threats also circulating on (X) formerly Twitter for anyone speaking against the PVO Bill. We ask the Zimbabwean Community in the UK to come and join us on the 30th of May 2024 as we raise our concern on the human rights violations used in acts of law in Zimbabwe.
The Zimbabwean government have for years meant to suppress the citizens of its country. We have seen fear ruthlessly unleashed on the citizens of Zimbabwe. When R G Mugabe was in power, the liberties of Zimbabweans were removed, freedom of expression, freedom of movement, freedom to entrepreneurship and many other liberties were shrunk tp zero. Even though sanctions were imposed against the Zanu Pf individuals, it did not actually impacted anybody within the government, but it surely put the peoples lives in total jeopardy. The injustices taking place in the country and the censorship of the Press will keep the Zanu Pf entourage to go 'unnoticed'. We in the UK and beyond, have criticised the Zanu Pf regime but I think we are not fully supported as atrocities still carry on in the country. Zanu Pf must be toppled including all its 'workers/enablers', so that a new democratic party can be endorsed as soon as is practically possible. We the diasporas have the need to come together with loud voices for the World to hear our discontentment.
This PVO BILL is another heavy hand of the ruling Zanu Pf. We must go to London and submit our petition at number 10 Downing street we must all meet at the Embassy before we can walk down to Downing street. The people of Zimbabwe have been choked for many years by this 'banditry government' that's always bloodthirsty and murderous. We oppose this PVO BILL and it must never pass….
For ZHRO and all Non-Zanu PF Zimbabwean Diaspora and Opposition
J C Burke, Basil Komombe and Moses Mbano
APPENDICIES
Appendix 1
Background: Source Amnesty International Zimbabwe
The Senate met on 1 February 2023 and, despite public concerns, passed the Private Voluntary Organization Amendment Bill (H.B. 10A, 2021).
On 5 November 2021, the Zimbabwe government gazetted a Private Voluntary Organization Amendment Bill ostensibly to “counter terrorism and prohibit political lobbying from, non-government organizations”.
An amended bill was then presented in June 2022 which significantly toughened the initial legislation, disregarding civil society’s concerns, and imposed stricter and more repressive clauses, and is the basis of the legislation now passed by the Senate.
The PVO Bill places all civic organizations registered under different laws under one law in an attempt to control civil society organizations perceived to be ‘anti-government.’
The PVO Amendment Bill is not the first attempt by the Zimbabwean authorities to regulate NGOs. The first one was made in 2004 through the ‘Non-Governmental Organization Bill’. It was passed by Parliament but never signed into law by then President, Robert Mugabe.
Appendix 2
CSO statement on the Amendments to the PVO Amendment Bill 2021
https://www.amnesty.org.zw/2022/08/cso-statement-on-the-amendments-to-the-pvo-amendment-bill-2021/
“Amnesty International Zimbabwe calls for the withdrawal of the Bill and the initiation of fresh consultations to be held with the public and CSOs”.
We, the Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) operating in Zimbabwe, have been closely monitoring proceedings in the Parliament of Zimbabwe on legislative reform. We have taken note of the proposed amendments to the Private Voluntary Organisations (PVO) Amendment Bill, 2021 which were presented by the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare on 26 July 2022 in the National Assembly. These amendments initially appeared in the Parliament Order Paper of 7 June 2022. Without any debate of the clauses, the revised Bill was adopted and has now been referred to the Parliamentary Legal Committee for scrutiny as to its compliance with the Constitution.
When the PVO Amendment Bill was gazetted on 5 November 2021, it attracted widespread national, regional and international condemnation for purporting to address the risk of money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism, albeit without adhering to the standards of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) of, among others, using a proportionate risk-based approach to identify, assess and address any money laundering and terrorist financing risks in the non-profit sector, in consultation with CSOs. There were communications to the government from four UN Special Rapporteurs on how the Bill fails to comply with international human rights standards. Since December 2021, CSOs have presented several oral and written submissions, including the CSOs’ Consolidated Analysis of the PVO Bill, highlighting their concerns to Parliament and to the Parliament Portfolio Committee on Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, and at the public hearings convened in terms of section 141 of the Constitution. In June 2022, CSOs also produced an Analysis of the Proposed Committee Stage Amendments to the PVO Amendment Bill, 2021.
Appendix 3
Women's Academy for Leadership and Political Excellence {WALPE}
WALPE'‘s statement concerning incidents of violence and intimidation at some of the Parliamentary PVO Bill Public Hearings: 18th May 2024.
The Women's Academy for Leadership and Political Excellence (WALPE) is deeply worried by the outbreak of violence and disruptions recorded during the Parliamentary public consultative hearings on the proposed amendment of the PVO bill. Incidents of violence and disruptions were recorded in Gweru, Chinhoyi, Masvingo, Marondera and Harare.
The heckling, intimidation, and physical attacks on citizens, particularly women, who attempted to participate in these hearings are unacceptable and violate their fundamental human rights. These public hearings were intended to provide a platform for Zimbabweans to engage in peaceful and constructive dialogue, sharing their views and opinions on the PVO Bill. Instead, they were marred by violence, chaos, and intimidation metered against those with dissenting voices.
WALPE is deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of all citizens, particularly women who have been disproportionately affected by this violence considering that is it not the first time that public hearings by Parliament have degenerated into chaos. Going forward, WALPE appeals to Parliament and the police to guarantee public safety and the protection of all citizens ensuring their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are respected.
We further call upon the relevant authorities to address and ensure the following in the future:
- Choice of Venue: the selection of venues for these public hearings was inadequate, with insufficient seating, poor sanitation facilities and limited space, creating an environment conducive for chaos and disorder. In the future, the Parliament must choose venues that are accessible, safe, and conducive for citizens to participate without fear of harassment.
- Safety of Women and Children: Women were disproportionately targeted and attacked, with some even reporting physical assaults. Some women were carrying young children who were exposed to the violence. This is unacceptable and highlights the need for greater protection and safety measures to ensure their full participation.
- Respect for Views: The disruptions and heckling prevented many citizens from expressing their views and opinions. This undermines the very purpose of public hearings and perpetuates a culture of intolerance.
- The police must investigate these incidents and hold perpetrators accountable.
/IITHE END///
Twitter/X: https://x.com/WalpeAcademy/status/1791753039864356939
18th May 2024: WALPE is deeply worried by the outbreak of violence and disruptions recorded during the Parliamentary Public Hearings on the Private Voluntary Organizations (PVO) Bill, and appeals to Parliament and the police to guarantee public safety and the protection of all citizens.
Appendix 4
- ZIMBABWE HUMAN RIGHTS MONITORS PLATFORM
- Baines, Avenues, Harare, Zimbabwe 0263
- Tel: +263 (0) 715 763 007
- X/Twitter: Press Release Official: No. 2024/82
- https://x.com/ProtectHRDs/status/1791530096613900647
17 May 17, 2024
Rejection of the PVO Bill at Harare, Zimbabwe
ZHRMP - Today, the Zimbabwe Human Rights Monitors Platform bore witness to a distressing display of authoritarianism at the New Ambassador Hotel in Harare during the Private Voluntary Organization (PVO) Bill hearing. What should have been a democratic forum for diverse opinions to be voiced and deliberated upon was instead hijacked by zealous ZANU-PF supporters. These forces, aided and abetted by the very parliamentarians entrusted with upholding the democratic process, callously silenced and verbally assaulted anyone daring to challenge the provisions of the PVO bill.
The Communications Officer, Passionate Fuza, courageously sought to express her genuine concerns regarding the PVO Bill. Yet, her noble attempt at constructive dialogue was met with a torrent of verbal violence, and repugnant hate speech. Denied the opportunity to fully articulate her views on the bill, the proceedings quickly descended into chaos, forcing an abrupt end at 2:30pm.
The Zimbabwe Human Rights Monitors Platform asserts that the PVO Bill, masquerading as a measure to combat terrorism financing, represents a grave threat to democratic processes and the very foundations of the constitution. By endowing the Minister with excessive powers, this insidious legislation compromises the independence of private voluntary organizations (PVOS), effectively muzzling them and subverting their vital role in holding the government accountable.
In the face of the violent disruptions and the grave implications of the PVO Bill, we resolutely condemn the reprehensible verbal assault on Passionate Fuza. This cowardly act not only trampled upon the principles of peaceful democratic engagement but also engenders an atmosphere of toxicity and hatred within our society.
Recommendations:
1. Swift Rejection of the PVO Bill: We call upon the government to unequivocally reject the current iteration of the proposed bill, recognizing its inherent threat to democratic principles and the inalienable rights of Zimbabwean citizens. Any endeavour to regulate PVOS must be undertaken with scrupulous care to safeguard their independence and preserve the bedrock of democracy.
2. Assurance of Safety and Security: We demand that the government take immediate and robust measures to ensure the safety and security of individuals exercising their right to freedom of expression. All citizens, irrespective of their affiliations or political leanings, must be safeguarded, fostering an inclusive and respectful environment conducive to open dialogue and constructive debate.
3. Thorough Investigation of the disruptions: We insist upon a thorough investigation into the appalling acts of verbal violence that marred the PVO Bill hearing. Perpetrators responsible for hate speech, and intimidation must face the full force of the law.
4. Meaningful Engagement with Civil Society: The government must actively engage and collaborate with civil society organizations, to ensure that any proposed legislation pertaining to PVOS upholds the principles of good governance, transparency, and human rights standards. The voices of those working tirelessly to promote human rights and social justice must be heard and respected.
For media inquiries, contact:
- Passionate Fuza
- Communications Officer
- Zimbabwe Human Rights Monitors Platform
- Tel: +263 (0) 715 763 007
Appendix 5
Commonwealth Lawyers Association
Statement regarding freedom of expression, the rule of law and support for fair and free elections in Zimbabwe
As published on Twitter/X by ‘Daddyhope’ https://x.com/daddyhope/status/1652903920996368384
The Commonwealth Lawyers Association (CLA) notes that elections are to take place in Zimbabwe later this year. In many counties elections can result in polarisation and tension, The CLA urges free ‘and fair elections’ in Zimbabwe and for all participants to respect the election outcome.
For democracy to flourish, Informed and tolerant debate is essential. Contrary views must be respected. Some events have occurred in Zimbabwe which cause concern to the CLA. The Private Voluntary Organisations (PVO) Bill which has passed Parliament has attracted much comment, The
CLA considers the PVO Bill to be inconsistent with the Constitution of Zimbabwe stifling Freedom of Association and Freedom of Expression. The intrusive powers contained within the PVO Bil will inhibit and curtal legitimate activities of civic society operating through private voluntary organisations, putting at risk the valuable social and economic contributions of such organisations.
At the Commonwealth Law Ministers Meeting in Mauritius in November 2022 Law Ministers of the ‘Commonwealth approved the “Commonwealth Principles on Freedom of Expression and the role of the media in good governance”, The CLA had assisted in the preparation of those Media Principles which state;
“Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democracy and underpins good governance, public accountability and respect for all human rights.”
a wider international context, the CLA notes that Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states as follows:
“Everyone has the right freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to old opinions without interference and to seek; receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers”.
In this context, where freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democracy, the CLA are concerned to note the conviction of a lawyer, Fadzayi Mahere, spokesperson for an opposition party in Zimbabwe. The charges were of “publishing falsehoods" and arose from a re-tweet which allegedly undermined the authority of the police and eroded public confidence in law enforcement agents. A previous decision of the Zimbabwe Constitutional Court in 2014 confirmed that there was in fact no proper legal basis for such a charge.
While the case may still be pending if an appeal is considered, the CLA are concerned that this cases emblematic of an approach of the authorities in Zimbabwe to constrain comment, to intimidate people from free and public discourse and to chill debate. The CLA very much hopes this will not prove to be the case in the run up to the elections.
The CLA notes Article 58 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe:
“Every person has the right to freedom of assembly and association, and the right not to assemble or associate with others”.
And Article 61:
“Every person has the right to freedom of expression, which includes-- a freedom to seek, receive and communicate ideas and other information”.
The CLA:
- Urges respect for the right to freedom of expression;
- Urges the Government in Zimbabwe to ensure that journalists, and government opposition, and representatives of civil society in Zimbabwe can exercise their rights of freedom of expression and assembly;
- Encourages and supports initiatives which allow the people of Zimbabwe to work together and unite to improve their personal circumstances, healthcare, and economic advancement through organisations in civic society and urges reconsideration of the PVO legislation;
- Encourages a free and fair and transparent election process in which all can have confidence; and
- Calls upon the Government of Zimbabwe at all times to uphold the Zimbabwean Constitution and the rule of law.
Commonwealth Lawyers Association (CLA) 26" April 2023
The Commonwealth Lawyers Association is an international non-profit organisation which exists to promote and maintain the rule of law throughout the Commonwealth by ensuring that an independent and efficient legal profession, with the highest standards of ethics and integrity, serves the people of the Commonwealth.