KEY POINTS
- Exiled minister Walter Mzembi condemns Zimbabwean student’s imprisonment.
- Nicole Chabata was jailed for her alleged involvement in CCC protests.
- Mzembi compares Mnangagwa’s regime to Rhodesian-era governance.
Exiled former Zimbabwean minister Walter Mzembi has condemned the jailing of a school student, Nicole Chabata, calling it a “demonic” act by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s regime. Chabata, a Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) supporter, was jailed for 90 days for allegedly planning protests around the SADC Heads of State Summit.
Jailing of minor draws widespread criticism
Chabata, who was arrested in June alongside 76 other CCC members, missed part of her school term while in detention, raising a public outcry.
Despite repeated calls for her release, including pleas for her to be allowed to prepare for her Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) Ordinary Level exams, she was denied bail twice before finally being granted bail.
Mzembi, currently exiled in South Africa, strongly condemned the decision, comparing it to the more lenient treatment of minors under the former Rhodesian government. According to New Zimbabwe, he further described the actions of Mnangagwa’s administration as unjust, citing the psychological toll on Chabata and other political prisoners.
“Jailing children is demonic,” Mzembi said, drawing parallels to how child offenders were previously treated. “Even in Rhodesia, child offenders were sent on probation or given community service.”
Mnangagwa’s government under scrutiny
The incident adds to mounting criticism of Mnangagwa’s governance, particularly from allies of former President Robert Mugabe.
Mzembi, along with other exiled political figures such as Patrick Zhuwawo, Jonathan Moyo, and Saviour Kasukuwere, has continued to oppose Mnangagwa’s administration from abroad.
This latest controversy highlights ongoing concerns over political repression in Zimbabwe. Human rights groups have repeatedly criticized the government for cracking down on dissent and imprisoning opposition members without fair trial.
