Mnangagwa Torments Teachers Union Leaders – Eduzim News

By A Correspondent

The relentless persecution of leaders from the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) by the Zanu PF regime continues, with recent court proceedings highlighting the ongoing harassment of union officials.

In a statement released on Monday, ARTUZ condemned the government’s actions against its Secretary General, Robson Chere, and other union members.

The union emphasized the unjust nature of the charges brought against them, calling for the immediate dropping of all charges.

“Court Update: Secretary General Robson Chere and Others

Today, our Secretary General, Robson Chere (@robohchere), along with @namataik_, Samuel Gwenzi, @EmmanuelSitima7, Phylis Pikitai, and others, appeared in court facing unfair charges of disorderly conduct,” the statement read.

These charges stem from Chere’s abduction at the airport on 31 July, during which he was tortured and unlawfully detained for 35 days. ARTUZ described these events as a gross violation of human rights and an attempt to silence the union’s advocacy for better working conditions for teachers.

“The state is continuing its attacks on our leaders, using baseless charges to intimidate and oppress them. These are not just accusations; they are part of a systematic effort to crush our union,” the statement continued.

The court proceedings on Monday saw the magistrate delay the ruling on a defense application until 18 December, granting the state additional time to respond. “Justice delayed is justice denied,” the union lamented, stressing that this delay only prolongs the suffering of its members.

ARTUZ has remained resolute, demanding that the charges be dropped and calling on the international community to stand in solidarity with those facing persecution in Zimbabwe.

“#DropTheCharges” was the union’s closing statement, a call for justice and an end to the regime’s oppressive tactics.

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