Press Statement from ZimRights on Zimbabwe Heroes Day 2025
As Zimbabwe commemorates Heroes Day 2025, we pause in solemn reflection of the immense sacrifices made by our heroes and heroines, the sons and daughters who gave their lives for the independence of this great nation. Their unwavering commitment to the liberation struggle stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit, and their courage continues to inspire generations.
On this day, we remember those who fought not just for political freedom, but for the dignity and well-being of every Zimbabwean. Their sacrifices were not made in vain; they laid down their lives so that we could live in a country free from oppression, where every citizen has the right to voice their opinion and contribute to the nation’s growth. Yet, decades later, the promise of freedom remains unfulfilled for many.
While we honour their memory, we must also confront the enduring challenges facing our nation today. The country’s economic struggles, marked by an inflation rate exceeding 95.80% and an unemployment rate of over 90%, continue to significantly impact the daily lives of Zimbabweans. Basic needs such as healthcare, education, and food security remain out of reach for many, with poverty rates surpassing 70%. Politically, divisions remain entrenched, and human rights violations persist, including arbitrary arrests, the suppression of free expression, and the curtailment of citizens’ right to peaceful assembly.
The government must mirror the sacrifices of our fallen heroes by upholding the Constitution and the rule of law. The principles of democracy, human dignity, and equality that they fought for must be reflected in the policies and actions of those who now hold power. We urge the government to take immediate steps to address these challenges, including implementing economic reforms, ensuring judicial independence, and investigating abuses to restore the trust of the people.
At ZimRights, we have documented these ongoing struggles in our recent reports, including the State of Peace Report and the State of Civic Space Report, which highlight the erosion of freedoms and the state’s failure to uphold human rights. Our commitment to fighting for a just society is unwavering. We continue to advocate for human rights, for the rule of law, and for the freedom that our heroes envisioned.
As we reflect on the legacy of our fallen heroes, we must also act in the spirit of unity and collective responsibility. Ordinary Zimbabweans can play a crucial role in the ongoing struggle. We call on every citizen to take action by documenting human rights violations, engaging in peaceful advocacy, and demanding accountability from those in power. True patriotism lies in respecting the rights of every Zimbabwean and ensuring that the freedoms our heroes died for are not just enshrined on paper but upheld in practice.
This Heroes Day, as we remember and honour the struggle of those who came before us, we must also reflect on the ongoing fight for a better, more just Zimbabwe. The struggle continues, and the dream lives on. Together, we can overcome the hardships of today and build a Zimbabwe that is prosperous, just, and free for all.
