Patrick Chinamasa, Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs

To Your e-mail Subject Message Dear Minister Chinamasa, I write to express my grave concern for the arrest of Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU) President, Clever Bere, and 13 other student activists. Bere and his colleagues were detained under the the Criminal Codification Act for…\'\'participating in a gathering with intent to promote public violence, breach of peace or bigotry.\'\' We understand that Bere was arrested after addressing students at the University of Zimbabwe outside the campus main library. The meeting, was organised by ZINASU, to discuss the issue of tuition fees, which a majority of students are unable to pay, and how to improve the welfare of students in tertiary institutions. The student activists’ arrest is a clear indication that freedom of expression on university campuses is still being abused despite the formation of the inclusive government. I believe these arrests violate universal rights to freedom of association, expression and assembly, which are guaranteed under international law and Zimbabwe’s constitution. Zimbabwe has an obligation to uphold and protect these rights. I ask you to ensure that all Zimbabweans are allowed to carry out their legitimate activities without fear of persecution. I ask you to drop all charges that have been brought against members of ZINASU for simply exercising their rights to freedom of expression, association and assembly. Sincerely,