International bodies condemn attacks on Zimbabwean lawyers, warn of threat to justice system
via NewsDay Zimbabwe5 min read
International legal bodies have expressed alarm over an increase in physical and verbal attacks on lawyers in Zimbabwe, stating that this trend jeopardizes the country's justice system and discourages legal professionals from handling sensitive cases. The International Bar Association and the Law Society of England and Wales issued a joint statement highlighting a recent attack on human rights lawyer Douglas Coltart as indicative of broader harassment against legal professionals. They warned that the violence and threats against Coltart, which occurred after a public hearing on Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 in Harare, could suppress dissent within the legal community. The organizations noted that such actions create a chilling effect, deterring lawyers and rights defenders from speaking out due to fear of retaliation. Coltart was reportedly assaulted, had his phone stolen, and received threats after attempting to document irregularities at the public hearing. The theft of his phone raised concerns about lawyer-client confidentiality, as it contained sensitive legal information. The legal bodies also connected the incident to wider concerns about judicial independence, particularly in light of proposed constitutional changes that could expand executive control over judicial appointments and weaken oversight institutions. They urged authorities to investigate the attack on Coltart and to cease all harassment and improper interference with lawyers and judges, emphasizing t
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by NewsDay Zimbabwe.
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Zimbabwe is sending its largest-ever delegation to the Education Africa International Marimba & Steelpan Festival, with ten schools and groups participating. The festival, hosted at St Dominic's Catholic School for Girls in Boksburg, South Africa, from July 24-26, will gather over 2,300 young musicians from four African countries. Zimbabwean participants include Chiremba Primary School, Charles Wraith Primary, Eland Oak School, Giamari Zimbabwe Rimbatainment, Hillcrest College, Ifalethu Arts Centre, Tynwald Primary School, Windview Primary School, and Brookside International School. Education Africa founder James Urdang highlighted that the festival is more than a competition; it is a platform for developing talent, building confidence, celebrating cultural diversity, and fostering understanding and friendships through music. The event also serves as a fundraiser for Education Africa's Marimba Programme, which provides music education access to young people.