A/HRC/34/8
service bill was being finalized to improve prison conditions, create community
correctional centres and increase the number of correctional facilities.
30.
The Interministerial Task Force on the Alignment of Legislation had been
established and tasked with coordinating the alignment of all laws with the 2013
Constitution. In line with the Electoral Act, which had been revised by the General Laws
Amendment Act, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission had been made responsible for
registering voters, compiling voters’ rolls and registers and ensuring the proper custody and
maintenance of the rolls. A polling station-based voter registration process had been
established.
31.
Criminal defamation was no longer a crime as it had been struck down by the
Constitutional Court. Broadcasting licences for private broadcasters and commercial radio
stations had been issued. Licences for community radio stations would be issued after the
digitalization of broadcasting services.
32.
The Interception of Communications Act was being revised to prevent the
unauthorized collection, processing and transmission of personal data and the interception
of communications.
33.
The rights to freedom of expression, association and assembly were not absolute and
must be exercised peacefully and with due respect for the rights of others. The Government
would continue to ensure that those rights could be enjoyed by all without causing harm to
or prejudicing the rights of others.
34.
The enforcement of civil court orders was the responsibility of the Sheriff of the
High Court and not of the police. However, where the Sheriff of the High Court was
hindered in carrying out his duty, the police could be called upon to assist in maintaining
peace and order.
35.
With regard to the concern expressed about human rights abuses by the security
forces, reported cases of such abuses were investigated and the alleged perpetrators were
prosecuted. Moreover, victims could institute civil proceedings against the perpetrators. A
new law was being drafted to provide for an independent mechanism to channel complaints
against members of the security forces.
36.
The delegation concluded its response to the questions received in advance of the
review by emphasizing that Zimbabwe was committed to working with the special
procedure mandate holders of the Human Rights Council. All outstanding requests for visits
to the country would be considered on their merits.
B.
Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review
37.
During the interactive dialogue, 86 delegations made statements. Recommendations
made during the dialogue are to be found in section II of the present report.
38.
The Netherlands applauded the adoption by Zimbabwe of a new Constitution. The
Netherlands was concerned by the increase in reported incidents infringing on the
fundamental rights and freedoms enshrined in it.
39.
New Zealand was concerned about the use of excessive force by government forces
and called on Zimbabwe to ensure that the right to freedom of expression was respected and
to support an open political space.
40.
The Niger was pleased with the adoption of the 2013 Constitution and noted with
satisfaction the strengthening of the legislative and institutional framework in the area of
human rights.
6
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