Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Zimbabwe: Political Repression

Tuesday 30 November 2021 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Minister expressed concern over political and human rights situation in Zimbabwe
  • UK embassy contacted Mr Haruzivishe's lawyers regarding his appeal
  • UK urged African Union and SADC for proper investigations into the deaths of opposition supporters

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Ruth Jones Lab Newport West and Islwyn
Foreign Affairs
Context

Opposition politician Makomborero Haruzivishe is detained, and there are reports of political repression in Zimbabwe.

Question

What representations has she made to the government of Zimbabwe on the continued detention of opposition politician Makomborero Haruzivishe and political repression in Zimbabwe?

Answer from Vicky Ford

We remain concerned about the political and human rights situation in Zimbabwe, with our embassy contacting Mr. Haruzivishe's lawyers regarding his appeal. We regularly urge the government to uphold their constitution for the Opposition, civil society, and journalists' rights. The UK reinforced these messages at COP26 on 1 November.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The specific actions taken or discussions had with Zimbabwe's government regarding Haruzivishe's detention were not detailed.

How: We Regularly Urge The Government, Reinforced These Messages

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Q2 Ruth Jones Lab Newport West and Islwyn
Foreign Affairs
Context

There are reports of opposition supporters losing their lives at the hands of authorities in Zimbabwe, hindering its role as a regional leader.

Question

Thanking the Minister for her answer but asking about the discussions had with African Union and SADC regarding political repression in Zimbabwe following recent deaths of opposition supporters.

Answer from Vicky Ford

Deeply concerned about civil rights situation, especially the death of opposition supporter Nyasha Zhambe Mawere. Urging proper investigations and accountability for those responsible. Sanctions target individuals responsible for human rights violations but not intended to impact Zimbabwe's economy or people.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Details on discussions with AU and SADC were not provided.

How: Deeply Concerned About Civil Rights Situation, Sanctions Target Individuals Responsible

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