Staff Reporter
The United States Department of State has come under sharp criticism from local political analysts following claims of widespread human rights violations in Zimbabwe.
On Tuesday, the CITE online publication reported the alleged incidents and quoted the United States Department of State, triggering a strong backlash from commentators who accused it of distorting reality.
Prominent political analyst Musi Masimuke condemned the report, describing it as a strategy by Western powers to undermine the integrity of Zimbabwe's 2023 Harmonised General Elections.
"This is nothing but a tool to continue the Western narrative, justifying their illegal sanctions under ZIDERA, which directly hinder our nation's economic progress," Masimuke stated.
Masimuke emphasised that the allegations serve to tarnish Zimbabwe’s international image while justifying ongoing sanctions.
Echoing Masimuke’s critique, Calvin Chitsunge pointed out discrepancies in the claims made by the US State Department.
"It's clear that the US is exaggerating events to suit its agenda. Cases like those of Joanna Mamombe and others, which they cite, have been legally debunked and proven to be fabrications aimed at stirring unrest," Chitsunge remarked.
He stressed the need for a balanced perspective that recognises the political and social advancements Zimbabwe has made in recent years.
Chitsunge also highlighted the strides made towards national reconciliation and development, urging a fair assessment of the country’s political climate.
"Zimbabwe has made considerable progress in fostering national unity and advancing development, which seems to be conveniently ignored by such biased reports," he said.
Another analyst, Edith Mushore, criticised the US for its selective approach to human rights.
"The United States should focus on rectifying its own record of human rights violations globally rather than acting as the world’s prefect. Their interference in other nations' affairs under the guise of human rights advocacy is hypocritical," the analyst argued.
These accusations come at a time when Zimbabwe is attempting to engage the international community, despite facing economic challenges partly attributed to sanctions.
