In a courageous act of defiance, human rights lawyer Douglas Coltart took to the streets of Harare to protest against the alarming rise in abductions of members of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) by alleged state agents. This comes in the wake of the recent abduction of Takudzwa Ngadziore, an opposition Member of Parliament, who was subjected to brutal torture and subsequently dumped in Christon Bank, Mazowe.
The gravity of the situation is elucidated by the haunting pictures of a tortured Ngadziore, which have since gone viral. In an act of solidarity, Coltart held up a placard bearing the message “No to abductions! No to barbarism!” as he marched along a prominent street in Harare. His solitary protest serves as a poignant reminder of the atrocities being committed against opposition voices in Zimbabwe.
What is particularly disturbing is that Ngadziore had raised the alarm prior to his abduction, livestreaming on Facebook as he revealed that he was being followed by his assailants. He even managed to capture their faces, one of whom was armed. Despite this evidence, the abductors remain at large, evading justice and perpetuating a culture of fear and impunity.
These abductions are not isolated incidents. Less than a week before Ngadziore’s ordeal, former Mabvuku-Tafara legislator James Chidhakwa suffered a similar fate. Chidhakwa was violently abducted, tortured, and injected with an unidentified substance. These systemic abuses have caught the attention of international political analysts, with Piers Pigou, head of the International Crisis Group’s Southern Africa program, highlighting that such acts are part of a wider strategy employed by the ruling party, Zanu PF, to suppress dissent.
The implications of these abductions extend far beyond the immediate victims. They send a chilling message to anyone who dares to criticize or oppose the ruling party. Basic criticism of the state can now lead to legal persecution, as the authorities clamp down on any form of dissent. Coltart’s brave gesture, though seemingly small, carries immense weight and carries the risk of violent reprisals from the very authorities entrusted with protecting the rights of citizens.
As Zimbabweans grapple with the erosion of their democratic freedoms, it is crucial that their voices are amplified and their stories told. The struggle for human rights and social justice requires unwavering dedication and unwavering courage. Douglas Coltart’s solo protest serves as a beacon of hope in these dark times, reminding us all of the power of unity and the importance of standing up for what is right.
It is imperative that the international community takes note of these egregious human rights violations and amplifies the voices of those who are being silenced. The brave actions of individuals like Coltart shine a light on the injustices taking place in Zimbabwe and inspire others to join the fight for a free and fair society. Together, we can make a difference and bring an end to the culture of fear and oppression.
