Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe

Yet again, ROHR Zimbabwe members defied the wet and windy weather, and the traffic congestion of the day to launch yet another branch in Brighton . Inevitably, the programme star ted late and to demonstrate their resolve to restore the human dignity and the rights to liberty and security in Zimbabwe , the people of Brighton waited patiently for the arrival of thier esteemed guests. In his opening remarks, Mr Tapa, ROHR Zimbabwe president thanked members S Dube , P Chibanguza, J Mugwagwa, S M Moyo, M Zikhali, T Matambanadzo,T Nyakurerwa, M Sebata, J Ruwona, L Potter, Sehlapi and Naomi for dedicating their time to organise the meeting and donating towards food and refreshments that were served on the day. Also present and with much appreciation was Mary-Jane Bukett (Brighton Voices in Exile) (an organisation that helps and support asylum seekers in and around Brighton ) who facilitated the venue for this event.

Special thanks go to our esteemed guest, Mr Sten Zvorwadza (vice president), normally based in Zimbabwe who also was there to grace the occasion. In his speech, Mr Zvorwadza gave a chilling account of how some ROHR activists were killed during the period post the 29 March elections for demanding democracy and fair play. He warned against investing much trust in Mugabe and the Unity Deal adding that the human rights situation was so appalling that many were still fleeing Zimbabwe to the safety of neighbouring countries. Mr Zvorwadza extended his appreciation to all activists for their contributions towards the struggle arguing that ‘without your support, there is very little we can do in our effort to save Zimbabwe '. This was reiterated by the President, Mr Ephraim Tapa, who emphasised on the need to ‘stand up in this hour of need and be counted'. Mr Tapa reminded the gathering that the people of Zimbabwe had voted for Change on 29 March 2008 and that the so called ‘deal' should have reflected that. He said ROHR Zimbabwe was to continue with its campaign for a quick return to democracy adding that it was the only credible solution to the Zimbabwe crisis. He added that ROHR Zimbabwe would also continue to press for the perpetrators of human rights abuses to be brought to justice. This was greeted with a loud applause from members some of who recounted how they had lost their loved ones at the hands of ZANU PF ‘thugs' and how it would be difficult for them to ‘forgive and forget' without accountability.

The meeting also had encouraging speeches from Mr Wellington Munyeweri (chairperson-Ashford/Kent), Mr Emnah Zibhowa (Chair – B'ham). We extend special thanks to activists Rugare Chifungo ( London ) and Matambanashe Sibanda ( Coventry ) who managed travelled all the way to support us . Mr Paradzai Mapfumo, the UK co-ordinator, addressed all administrative issues.

Lastly, Mr Tapa extended his appreciation for the well organised event – thanking the team for the hard work. Ms Sinikiwe Dube, the newly elected chairperson, gave a vote of thanks and Ms M Sebata closed with a prayer.

Members and guests alike were later treated to a variety of traditional dishes, definitely a hit with participants!

Interim Committee nominated

Chairperson – Sinikiwe Dube,Vice – Tafara Nyakurerwa, Secretary – Phyllis Chibanguza, Organising Secretary – Sehlapi, Treasurer – Melissa Zikhali, vice – Jessica Ruwona, Fundraising – Jane Mugwagwa and Simenzeleni M Moyo. Activists:-Leila Potter, Clair Currie, Naomi, Cosmas Rafunya, Grace Moyo, Nicklett Nyahwema, Abigail Nyakudya,

For the record, 15 people signed for membership… watch out for Brighton !!!….

By Phyllis Chibanguza ( Secretary – Brighton Branch )