Zimbabwe: Zanu-PF Tops Human Rights Violations in April - Report

The ruling Zanu PF party is the main cause of violence in April. This information comes from the Zimbabwe Peace Project's (ZPP) report for April 2025.

The ZPP expressed serious concern about ongoing politically motivated violence. They noted coercion and systemic abuses by state and non-state actors. The recorded violations highlight the urgent need for reform and accountability. Protecting the rights of all Zimbabweans is essential.

The ZPP warned that without action, peace, democracy, and justice are at risk. The government and local authorities are also implicated in human rights violations. Zanu PF was responsible for over thirty-four percent of these violations in April 2025.

The report stated that individuals linked to Zanu PF committed 34.1% of reported violations. The Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) was identified as a major perpetrator too. About six percent of total rights violations were attributed to the military.

According to the report, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) accounted for 24.1% of perpetrators. Local councils were responsible for 15.64%. The ZNA contributed 6.41%, while government officials made up 4.62%. This shows a wide range of responsibility for these abuses.

Masvingo Province had the highest number of violations with 20 cases reported. Harare Province followed with 14 cases, reflecting patterns from March 2025. Other provinces included Manicaland with 12, Mashonaland Central with 13, Mashonaland East with 11, and Mashonaland West with 12.

Midlands Province saw a decrease in incidents from March to April, dropping from 14 to five cases reported. Bulawayo had one case, Matabeleland North had two, and Matabeleland South had three reported violations.

On a positive note, the ZPP highlighted a recent High Court ruling supporting UZ lecturers' right to strike as hopeful news amidst troubling trends. This ruling affirmed their constitutional right to strike according to the Association of University Teachers (AUT).