In a strong statement issued on February 9, 2024, Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF, staunchly defended the professionalism of the country’s security sector amid ongoing accusations of human rights abuses. The party’s response came after the European Union decided to extend sanctions against the Zimbabwe Defence Industries (ZDI) until February 20, 2025.
The EU’s sanctions, which include an arms trade embargo, aim to curb the ZDI’s operations, citing its role in enabling the alleged abuse of basic human rights by the Zanu PF government. Reports of state-sponsored abductions, extra-judicial killings, and violations of opposition figures’ rights have marred the reputation of Zimbabwe’s security forces, which benefit from ZDI’s operations.
Farai Marapira, Zanu PF’s Director for Information and Publicity, articulated the party’s position, asserting the security sector’s commitment to professionalism and human rights. Marapira criticized the EU’s decision as a setback to Zimbabwe’s efforts toward national rebuilding and engagement with the international community. “As Zanu PF, we are disappointed but not surprised by the EU’s decision to extend the arms embargo on Zimbabwe. This decision further undermines our efforts to build a prosperous nation,” Marapira stated.
He urged the EU to acknowledge Zimbabwe’s reforms and engage in constructive dialogue, emphasizing the government’s openness to collaboration for a peaceful and prosperous Zimbabwe. “The EU must recognize our comprehensive reforms and engage constructively. Zimbabwe’s security forces have championed professionalism and adherence to human rights. It’s time to restore trust, foster dialogue, and lift these outdated restrictions,” Marapira added.
Despite President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s calls for re-engagement with the West, his administration has struggled to overcome skepticism from international partners, who maintain that more needs to be done to address human rights concerns and ensure genuine reform.
The extension of sanctions by the EU underscores the continuing challenges faced by Zimbabwe in its efforts to mend relations with the international community and address internal issues of governance and human rights. As Zimbabwe navigates these complex dynamics, the global watch on its reform and engagement processes remains vigilant.
