Critics argue that Karembera's treatment is not an isolated incident but part of a systematic crackdown on government opponents. Pattern of Abductions: His alleged abduction fits a "long-standing pattern of targeted abductions and intimidation of opposition figures, students, and activists," according to human rights defender Lemuel Mukandawire . This wave of repression is reportedly intensifying as a pushback grows against President Emmerson Mnangagwa's attempt to extend his incumbency beyond 2028.
The criticism is reinforced by the simultaneous targeting of other activists. For example, two student activists from Chinhoyi University of Technology were also reportedly abducted and tortured around the same time as Karembera. Another activist, Malcom "Traore" Masarira, was arrested for his online activity supporting a different political figure.
The crackdown is not confined to Zimbabwe's borders. Reports indicate that authorities are maintaining a "long watchlist" of diaspora activists abroad who are critical of the government, with hints that laws like the Patriotic Act could be applied to them. The charges against Karembera highlight the government's use of legislation that critics say is designed to silence dissent.
While police initially charged him under the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, they signalled the possible use of the Patriotic Act (2023). This law criminalises conduct deemed to "injure the sovereignty and national interest" of Zimbabwe. Rights groups argue its wording is "vague and enables abuse," effectively suppressing legitimate political organising.
The specific allegations against Karembera involve distributing flyers and a video calling for citizens to join the "One Million Man March" against corruption. The flyers bore slogans like "Stop the looting; Zimbabwe is not for sale — 7 billion reasons to march”. His lawyer has argued that the arrest was unlawful and the charges baseless.
The judicial process and Karembera's treatment in custody have also been major points of criticism. In a highly unusual move, the presiding magistrate, Ruth Moyo, recused herself from his bail application after the defence argued that Karembera had "lost confidence in the impartiality of the court”. This incident has raised serious questions about the fairness of the legal process he can expect.
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Denial of Medical Care: Perhaps the most urgent criticism concerns his health. While in custody, Karembera reportedly became seriously ill and unable to urinate, with fears of internal injuries sustained during torture. Prison authorities have been accused of denying him access to private medical care despite his deteriorating condition, leading a rights lawyer to state that "denying an ailing detainee access to medical care is inhumane and unconstitutional”.
Analysts view Karembera's detention as directly linked to intense political battles within the ruling ZANU-PF party over President Mnangagwa's future. The "2030 Agenda": The arrests are happening against the backdrop of the so-called "2030 Agenda" — a campaign to extend Mnangagwa's rule beyond the constitutional limit of 2028. This proposal has divided the ruling party and created factional battles, with State institutions seemingly used to neutralise anyone who openly challenges the plan.
Karembera's alleged actions were in support of protests called by Blessed Geza, a expelled war veteran demanding Mnangagwa's resignation over corruption. This has led to a "vicious crackdown" on Geza's perceived backers.
To conclude, the criticism of the Zimbabwean government in the case of Godfrey Karembera popularly known as Madzibaba VeShanduko is multi-faceted, painting a picture of a state using abduction, torture, repressive laws, and biased courts to silence opposition. His alleged targeting is seen as a warning to all critics amidst a high-stakes political struggle over the country's future leadership.
- Kudakwashe Siziba is a Zimbabwean based in the Diaspora. He writes in his personal capacity.