Political Correspondent
The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) is facing a glaring gender imbalance in its ongoing selection process, with all nine shortlisted candidates being male.
This is particularly surprising given that last year, 15 female candidates were shortlisted for just two vacancies.
The nine male candidates, including former Kadoma mayor Muchineripi Chinyanganya, Nicholas Mapute, Stanely Moyo, Nkosana Mtunzi, Martin Muduva, Tatenda Mugabe, Pangani Munkombwe, Abram Mupuwi, and Joe Muzurura, will undergo public interviews on September 26, 2024.
Advocate Nyari Mashayamombe questioned the lack of female representation, stating,
“Why is there zero woman on this list? I know I’ve personally applied a number of times not even make the shortlist?”.
In response, Clerk of Parliament Kennedy Chokuda emphasized that the interviews will be conducted in accordance with the country’s Constitution, specifically sections 237 and 238. The ZHRC, currently chaired by Jessie Fungai Majome, is responsible for promoting human rights awareness, investigating violations, and assisting victims in receiving justice.
Key Responsibilities of the ZHRC:
- Promoting Human Rights Awareness: Educating the public about human rights and freedoms
- Investigating Violations: Examining suspected human rights abuses by authorities or individuals
- Assisting Victims: Taking necessary action to ensure victims receive justice
- Monitoring Detention Facilities: Inspecting prisons, refugee camps, and similar facilities to ensure humane conditions
- Submitting Annual Reports: Providing a comprehensive report on human rights in Zimbabwe to Parliament.
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