We are disturbed about, and condemn unreseverdly, the unacceptable use of torture and excessive human rights abuses by the state and its security apparatus in the context of calls for elections. Freedom of expression and open parliamentary processes and civil society activities remain threatened by increasing levels of violence and sporadic arrests of human rights defenders. The severity of the political crisis in Zimbabwe has reached unacceptable levels which require urgent corrective action by the government of Zimbabwe.

Impunity and absolute lack of accountability is indicative of the breakdown of the rule of law in Zimbabwe which contribute negatively to participatory processes that work towards instilling a culture of human rights, democracy and good governance.

We urge the government of Zimbabwe to fast track human rights progress in Zimbabwe and to act urgently on the following:

 End torture and all forms of violence or harassment of political and human rights defender’s and create a climate conducive for free and fair national elections.

 Restore the human dignity of the people of Zimbabwe and enable an undisturbed open democratic process for Zimbabwean people to define and develop policies that are owned and driven by all in an atmosphere of free political activity and peace.

 Desist from undue interference with freedom of expression and exchange of information including the media and in the CSOs platforms and parliamentary dialogues that increase awareness and foster progressive legislative frameworks respected by all state institutions with accountable mechanisms to promote the rule of law and good governance.

 Work with the people of Zimbabwe including engagement of the Diaspora in dialogue to pave way for free and fair elections based on open democratic process enabling all Zimbabweans to vote including those in the Diaspora.

Thus done and signed on 30th July, 2011, at the University of Kwazulu Natal, Durban