Erosion Of The Rule Of Law In Zimbabwe: 'Our Hands Are Tied'.pdf

## Summary

"Our Hands Are Tied" investigates the erosion of the rule of law in Zimbabwe, focusing on the compromised independence and impartiality of the judiciary, public prosecutors, and police. Over the past decade, Zimbabwe's ruling party, ZANU-PF, has systematically undermined these institutions for political gain. The report highlights:

Judiciary Capture: ZANU-PF has purged the judiciary, packed courts with supporters, and pressured judges to rule in favor of the party.
Political Interference by Prosecutors: The Office of the Attorney General and public prosecutors have been instructed to delay or drop cases against ZANU-PF members and pursue opposition figures excessively.
Politicized Police Force: Zimbabwe's police force has become a partisan arm of ZANU-PF, failing to investigate political violence against the opposition and actively pursuing and harassing MDC supporters.
Impacts on Human Rights: This politicization has contributed significantly to widespread human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detentions, and torture.

The report calls for urgent reforms to restore the rule of law in Zimbabwe, emphasizing the need for:

Independent judicial appointments
Unbiased prosecution handling of political cases
* Police accountability and impartiality