Few people are left in Zimbabwe who dare to openly protest against President Mugabe’s regime. Human rights activist Lovemore Madhuku and ZCTU President Lovemore Matombo are the loudest critical voices still speaking out. Since late March 2005, their life has been in serious danger.

Zimbabwe is one of the longest-suffering African countries. Robert Mugabe’s regime is held together by intimidation, election fraud and violence.

On March 31st, elections were held in Zimbabwe. It was little more than a show, because running in opposition is impossible. There is no free press in Zimbabwe, and gatherings of more than 2 people are illegal. Hunger and fear are used to buy votes.


Why this sudden action to support Lovemore Madhuku?

There are strong indications that the Zimbabwean government wants to be rid of him. Raising an opposing voice in Zimbabwe is life threatening.

Augustine Chihuri, the highest chief of the Zimbabwean police force, stated on March 23rd that Lovemore must retract his criticisms laid out in the NCA report “Consolidated Election Climate Report Number 1”, which describes the role of the police in election fixing activities.

Chihuri said that if Madhuku did not retract the NCA statements, "the law would take its course". In Zimbabwe, a statement of this kind can mean anything.


Why this sudden action to support Lovemore Matombo?

Last month an attempt to shoot him at an ZCTU Executive Committee meeting failed. The perpetrator was identified but has not been arrested. Also a member of Matombo's family has been threatened.



Lovemore Madhuku and Lovemore Matombo need protection from the International community NOW. The more people express their solidarity, the safer they will be from threats by the Zimbabwean government. After all, the government still wants to maintain the image of legitimacy...

So please sign the petition addressed to the Zimbabwean Ambassador in Brussels.

The petition was going to be presented to the Ambassador in Brussels on April 18th, the day Zimbabwe celebrated its 25th year of independence. But NiZA has decided to delay the presentation of the petition for at least a week, because support is still growing.