Given the news that on 11 December 2024 the Senate of Zimbabwe approved the Bill on the abolition of the death penaltynow awaiting presidential sanction,Amnesty International Zimbabwe executive director Lucia Masuka said:
“Today’s historic vote in the Senate represents an meaningful step by Zimbabwe towards the abolition of the death penalty. “It is also a victory for all those who have fought tirelessly to make this cruel punishment history and to strengthen the protection of the right to life and other human rights.”
“We urge the President to take this historic decision into account by signing this bill without delay and commuting all death sentences to prison sentences“
“We urge the President to heed this historic decision by signing this bill without delay and commuting all death sentences to prison terms.“The death penalty is the supreme example of cruel, inhuman and degrading punishment, and it has no place in our world.”
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Amnesty International has been campaigning for the abolition of the death penalty around the world as 1977. Zimbabwe has made some progress in limiting the use of the death penalty, including by establishing an unofficial moratorium on executions. The president also routinely commutes death sentences to life imprisonment. However, although Zimbabwe carried out its last execution in 2005, death sentences continued to be imposed.
In Febuary this year, anti-death penalty activists welcomed the approval by Zimbabwe’s Council of Ministers of the principles of a bill to remove the death penalty from criminal law.
In November 2024, Zimbabwe voted in favor of the draft UN General Assembly resolution on a moratorium on the use of the death penalty.
The current Constitution of Zimbabwe provides for the death penalty in cases of murder committed in aggravated circumstances.
What are the human rights implications of abolishing the death penalty in Zimbabwe?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Lucia Masuka, Executive Director of Amnesty International Zimbabwe
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, Lucia. Thank you for joining us today. We’ve just heard the news that the Senate of Zimbabwe approved the Bill on the abolition of the death penalty. How notable is this decision for zimbabwean society?
Lucia Masuka: Good afternoon, and thank you for having me. This decision is monumental for Zimbabwe. The Senate’s vote marks a meaningful shift in our approach to human rights and justice. It not only reflects a commitment to the value of human life but also aligns Zimbabwe with global trends towards abolition.
Time.news Editor: That’s a powerful statement. Can you explain the implications of this bill awaiting presidential sanction? What does it mean for the future of the death penalty in Zimbabwe?
Lucia Masuka: Certainly.The bill now requires the president’s assent to become law. If approved, it would signify a complete abolition of the death penalty, transforming our legal landscape. This move would eliminate a form of punishment that is often criticized for its moral implications and its ineffectiveness as a deterrent to crime. It opens the door for more rehabilitative forms of justice.
Time.news Editor: What challenges do you foresee in the implementation of this new law once it is indeed signed?
Lucia Masuka: While this is a progressive step, challenges will remain. There will be a need to shift public opinion and address deeply entrenched beliefs regarding capital punishment. Additionally, resources must be allocated to support rehabilitation and reintegration of former inmates. Training for law enforcement and legal professionals to adapt to new practices will also be essential.
Time.news Editor: How has the public reacted to the abolition of the death penalty?
Lucia Masuka: Public opinion is quite divided. While many welcome the change as a sign of progress and a commitment to human rights, others fear that it could lead to an increase in crime. It’s essential to engage the public in dialog about the benefits of abolishing the death penalty, highlighting success stories from other nations that have done so.
Time.news Editor: That’s an crucial aspect to consider. Moving forward, how will Amnesty International Zimbabwe continue to support this initiative?
Lucia Masuka: Our role will involve advocacy, education, and community engagement. We plan to work with various stakeholders, including civil society, government, and educational institutions, to promote awareness of human rights and the advantages of the abolition of the death penalty. Mobilizing community support will be crucial to ensuring the bill is not only signed into law but also embraced by the people.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Lucia, for sharing your insights on this transformative moment for Zimbabwe. We look forward to seeing how this legislation unfolds and impacts the future of justice in the country.
Lucia Masuka: Thank you for having me. Together, we can raise awareness and promote a more humane approach to justice in Zimbabwe.