JOB SIKHALA’S FIGHT FOR FREEDOM: A VOICE AGAINST OPPRESSION IN ZIMBABWE

On May 15, 2024, at the 16th Geneva Summit for Human Rights and Democracy, Job Sikhala, a well-known lawyer and former political prisoner from Zimbabwe, gave a moving speech about the harsh political persecution in his country. Sikhala’s speech focused on his personal struggles but also spoke for many other Zimbabweans living under an oppressive government.

Sikhala is known for standing against the ruling leaders of Zimbabwe for many years. He shared the painful details of his arrest on June 14, 2022, when he was taken into custody while trying to help the family of Moreblessing Ali, an opposition activist who was murdered. His arrest showed how the government silences anyone who opposes them. Sikhala was kept in Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison for 595 days before he even went to trial. During this time, he was kept in solitary confinement, did not have access to basic needs, and was not allowed to use his legal rights. This treatment was a violation of his dignity and human rights.

In his speech, Sikhala talked about how he has been arrested many times in his almost 30-year career in politics. He explained that these arrests were not because of any real crimes but were only done to stop him from speaking out. He shared how he was often chained, kept in isolation, and left sick without proper medical care during his time in prison. These stories painted a clear picture of the cruelty of the people in power in Zimbabwe.

But Sikhala’s speech was not only about his own pain. He also spoke about how people connected to him faced oppression. For example, his wife was arrested for a small traffic offense, and university students were arrested for demanding his release. These examples show how the government tries to crush anyone who challenges them by spreading fear.

Sikhala also talked about how this oppressive system affects the country as a whole. His legal practice was destroyed, and his family and colleagues are always being harassed. He also told the story of how Moreblessing Ali’s funeral was interrupted by a violent mob that the government supported. This event shows just how low the government can go to keep control.

At the Geneva Summit, Sikhala did not only list his grievances but also called for action. He warned about new laws like “The Patriotic Act” that limit free speech and punish political opponents harshly. He spoke about how these laws make it harder for Zimbabweans to speak up for themselves. He also pointed out the problems in education, where only the rich get access to good schools, leaving many others without hope.

Sikhala touched on the effects of climate change as well, saying that the Southern African region is already suffering from political and social problems, and climate change only makes things worse. He asked the global community to give aid fairly and not let it be used by the government as another way to control people.

In closing, Sikhala introduced the National Democratic Working Group (NDWG), a group working to build democratic participation and fight the oppressive actions of the Zimbabwean government. His role in the NDWG shows his continued dedication to democracy and human rights in Zimbabwe.

Job Sikhala’s speech at the Geneva Summit was a strong reminder of the ongoing fight against tyranny in Zimbabwe. It was a call to the world to stand with those who are fighting for democracy and human rights. Sikhala’s final words, asking for divine blessings for everyone, showed his hope and determination for a free Zimbabwe. He reminded the world that courage and resilience are needed to challenge injustice and make change happen.