IN a significant development, Zimbabwe’s cabinet has unanimously agreed to abolish the death penalty, opting instead to impose lengthy prison sentences for the most severe offences. The decision, made after months of deliberation in parliament, marks a crucial step towards aligning Zimbabwe’s legal system with international human rights standards.
The cabinet endorsed a private member’s bill, introduced in the National Assembly last year, aimed at abolishing the death penalty inherited from British colonial rule. The move reflects President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s longstanding commitment to ending capital punishment, echoing his own experiences as a political prisoner during the struggle for independence against British rule.
‘In view of the need to retain the deterrent element in sentencing murderers, it is expected that the new law will impose lengthy sentences without violating the right to life,’ stated the cabinet in a released statement. The decision underscores a delicate balance between upholding deterrence in sentencing while respecting fundamental human rights.
Furthermore, the cabinet emphasized that aggravating circumstances may warrant life sentences, ensuring that justice is served while upholding the sanctity of life. Zimbabwe has not carried out any executions since 2005, reflecting a de facto moratorium on capital punishment in recent years.
President Mnangagwa’s personal experiences have undoubtedly influenced his stance on the death penalty, with a firm commitment to safeguarding human rights and promoting justice. His advocacy for abolition aligns with global trends towards the elimination of capital punishment, positioning Zimbabwe as a progressive force in the region.
As Zimbabwe moves forward with the abolition of the death penalty, the cabinet’s decision reflects a broader commitment to fostering a fair and just society, where respect for human rights and the rule of law prevail.