Abel Ndooka
Virginia Mabiza
BY the end of 2024, Zimbabwe is expected to have made significant progress towards promulgating legislation to abolish the death penalty, a reform expected to be finalised by the first quarter of 2025.
The move to abolish the death penalty marks a defining moment in the nation’s legal and human rights landscape.
This progressive step reflects the country’s alignment with global trends prioritising human dignity and restorative justice over punitive measures.
The initiative is the result of comprehensive public consultations, alongside meaningful collaboration with international partners and civil society organisations, including the Swiss Embassy and the Centre for Applied Legal Research (CALR).
It has been further reinforced by strong governmental leadership, exemplified by the steadfast advocacy of His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr ED Mnangagwa.
The proposed Death Penalty Abolition Bill, which has now been passed by both Houses of Parliament (i.e. the National Assembly and Senate), emerged from a landmark Cabinet decision in February 2024.
If enacted, it will eliminate capital punishment, replacing it with life imprisonment for the most serious offences.
This effort aligns Zimbabwe with global human rights standards and places it among African nations such as South Africa and Rwanda, which have abolished the death penalty.
Zimbabwe’s recent vote at the United Nations in favour of a moratorium on the death penalty underscores its growing alignment with international norms.
This stance underlines Zimbabwe’s commitment to constructing a justice system that emphasises rehabilitation over retribution.
Zimbabwe’s journey towards abolition of the death penalty is a testament to the power of dialogue, leadership and the collective will to build a just society.
As the nation awaits the signing of the Bill into law by President Mnangagwa, it stands on the brink of a transformative era, ready to redefine its justice system and reaffirm its commitment to progressive governance.
“This is about more than just ending a law,” President Mnangagwa has said.
“It is about building a nation where life and dignity are respected above all.”
The abolition of the death penalty is a momentous step that promises to resonate within Zimbabwe and beyond, positioning the country as a beacon of reform and justice in the region.
Virginia Mabiza is Zimbabwe’s Attorney-General.
Online Reporter
