Zimbabwean demonstrators, many who had come from other regions of the UK, gathered at Piccadilly Gardens in Manchester. The demonstration was one of the cross-country series of protests for #Take2Zimbabwe lined up by Zimbabwe Human Rights Organisation (ZHRO), Restoration Of Human Rights Zimbabwe (ROHR) and Zimbabwe Citizens Initiative (ZCI). This was the third of those planned for this year, after those held in London on the 18th and Birmingham on the 22nd of April. The main goals of these demonstrations is to fight for the right to vote, to highlight corruption, and human rights abuses in Zimbabwe. Zimbabweans working together in groups are getting involved and uniting through working in partnerships, hoping that these non-violent protests will turn into voting rights, recognitions of human rights and ultimately, a real democracy.
Reports on possible amendments to the constitution have also angered many Zimbabweans, especially the Diaspora who should be credited with keeping the country’s economy afloat through remittances. The anger emanates from the recent announcement by the Registrar General, Tobaiwa Mudede, that he intends to abolish dual citizenship.
On the list of demands, speakers from these organisations criticised intimidation and violence and encouraged the protection of protesters as per the constitution.
Speaking at the event, ROHR Zimbabwe’s organising secretary for the UK chapter, Delina Mutyambizi expressed the need for Zimbabweans to unite saying; “It is time for us now, as citizens of Zimbabwe, to find each other and come together as one to fight together for the best Zimbabwe we want. The current government has spent the entire 37 years violating our human rights. We have to stand up now and fight for the restoration of our dignity as a Nation”
Full Article: Zimbabwe’s diaspora in the UK continue their push for a right to vote – The Zimbabwean.