United Nations Radio

Six United Nations human rights experts have expressed concern about the deteriorating human rights situation in Zimbabwe in the aftermath of the 29 March parliamentary and presidential elections.

In a statement issued in Geneva today, they say they have received reliable information suggesting that since the holding of the elections, acts of intimidation, violence and torture are occurring as retribution against those suspected to have voted for or supported the Movement for Democratic Change, the MDC.

The experts note that there are reports of security forces, paramilitary groups and gangs deploying in areas where the MDC got more votes than the ZANU-PF party of President Robert Mugabe in order to attack the homes of suspected MDC supporters.

They point out that more than 300 people have been hospitalized for injuries, there have been several cases of politically-motivated murders, nearly 300 homes have been burnt and fifteen women abducted.

The UN human rights experts are strongly urging the authorities in Zimbabwe to restore peace in the country and put an end to organized and politically motivated violence.

Diane Bailey, United Nations.

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