Zimbabwe: UN Rights Experts Slam Zimbabwe's Prolonged Pretrial Detentions - Judicial Interference

The United Nations (UN) Human Rights Committee has made several recommendations. They urge authorities to improve pretrial detentions and end judicial interference. These suggestions come from a report published on Tuesday.

The Committee on Civil and Political Rights (CCPR) reviewed Zimbabwe's progress. They assessed the country's implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). The report highlights gaps in this implementation.

These recommendations follow complaints from arrested rights activists. Many believe they faced unfair pretrial detentions.

The report states, "Pretrial detention must be reviewed promptly and impartially." It emphasizes the need for effective habeas corpus rights. Anyone detained arbitrarily should be released without conditions and compensated.

The Committee also raised concerns about threats to judges. Reports indicate intimidation and dismissal of judges who rule against the government. Additionally, there is a shortage of judges, causing delays in justice, especially in human rights cases.

"The State Party must act immediately to prevent all forms of undue influence," the report says. It calls for full independence and impartiality of judges. This includes transparent procedures for their selection, appointment, promotion, and removal.