Press Statement
ZimRights Condemns Arson Attacks of SAPES Trust in Harare
ZimRights is deeply concerned about the arson attack of SAPES Trust in Belgravia, Harare, early this morning. The attack, which took place just hours before a press conference on the ongoing constitutional crisis, represents a dangerous escalation of politically motivated violence designed to intimidate and suppress legitimate public discourse. The press conference was to discuss critical constitutional issues affecting Zimbabwe’s future, and such actions are an alarming sign of attempts to silence perceived dissent.
In our recently released State of Peace Report 2024-25, we noted a troubling trend: 71% of respondents reported experiencing some form of violence in their communities. This latest attack is a direct manifestation of the environment of fear and repression that many Zimbabweans face daily. The bombing of SAPES Trust is not an isolated incident; it is part of a larger pattern of attacks against civic spaces, human rights defenders, and activistsexercising their rights and freedoms.
The attack on SAPES Trust involved unidentified assailants who allegedly threw petrol bombs, destroying the seminar room. The night guard was abducted, and the gate was locked with new keys in a blatant attempt to delay firefighters from responding to the blaze.
Dr. Ibbo Mandaza, the Director of SAPES Trust, confirmed the attack, stating:
“The SAPES Trust Seminar Room, the usual venue for meetings, has been completely gutted by the arsonists who also abducted the security guard who was on duty. The press conference scheduled for 11AM today will proceed as planned on the ashes of the destruction and in full view of the world and parallel with their ‘SONA!’ Yes, it will be well; there is a tomorrow in Zimbabwe.”
This attack follows another reported act of violence in Highfield, where the home of Gilbert Bgwende, an acrivist, was also set on fire in the early hours of the same morning. These attacks, which occurred just hours apart, suggest a coordinated effort to intimidate those speaking out about constitutional matters and to undermine the very foundation of democratic engagement in Zimbabwe.
These attacks on SAPES Trust and Gilbert Bgwende’s home are a clear violation of fundamental rights enshrined in Zimbabwe’s Constitution. The Constitution guarantees every citizen fundamental rights, including:
The right to personal security (Section 49), which protects all Zimbabweans from physical violence, including acts of torture, degrading treatment, and arbitrary arrest.
The right to freedom of expression (Section 61), which includes the right to speak freely, express opinions, and engage in peaceful protest without fear of retribution.
The right to freedom of assembly and association (Section 58), which guarantees that people can come together to discuss and address issues that affect them, without intimidation or violence.
The right to human dignity (Section 51), ensuring that all citizens are protected from any form of degrading treatment or violence.
In addition, these actions are in direct contravention of international human rights laws, including;
The African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which guarantees freedom of expression (Article 9), freedom of assembly (Article 10), and freedom of association (Article 11).
The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which enshrines the right to freedom of expression (Article 19), peaceful assembly (Article 21), and freedom of association (Article 22).
Such attacks show a blatant disregard for these fundamental rights, which are supposed to be the cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s democracy. This is not just an attack on SAPES Trust, but an assault on the right of all Zimbabweans to engage freely in human rights and civic discourse.
Considering these grave violations, ZimRights calls for the following actions:
- Immediate Investigation: We demand a full, investigation into the attacks on SAPES Trust and the home of Gilbert Bgwende. It is critical that the authorities take swift action to establish the facts and hold those responsible accountable under the law.
- Protection of Civic Spaces: The state must ensure the safety and security of civil society organizations, activists, and venues where civic engagement takes place. Institutions like SAPES Trust must be protected, allowing them to continue their critical work without fear of attack or harassment.
- Commitment to Peace: We call for a renewed commitment from political leaders to reject violence in all forms and to publicly pledge to uphold peace, tolerance, and the protection of human rights in Zimbabwe. The violence must stop, and the rhetoric of hate and division must be replaced with calls for unity and peaceful dialogue.
As noted in our State of Peace Report, 71% of the respondents reported experiencing some form of violence in their communities. This statistic underscores the urgent need for collective action to address the escalating violence and intimidation. ZimRights stands firm in its commitment to promoting human rights, peace, and the rule of law. We will continue to advocate for an environment where every Zimbabwean can freely express their views, engage in political.
Issued by ZimRights Information Department
