In the most recent urgent action letter, the TRU Students’ Union called on Prosecutor General Hon. Loice Matanda-Moyo to immediately drop all charges against Bhekimpilo Mbedzi. The letter urged authorities to end the prosecution of Mbedzi, who is facing charges after sharing a Facebook post encouraging participation in a planned peaceful gathering.
“I think it’s important to remember that meaningful change often begins with people choosing to speak up. Writing these letters is a way of showing support, raising awareness, and reminding decision-makers that the world is watching, ” said Mikayla Overton, Equity Committee Member-at-Large.
Mbedzi was arrested on July 15, 2026, after sharing a Facebook post calling on people to join a planned peaceful gathering opposing Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3; which serves to extend the national electoral cycle and the terms of office for the president, members of parliament, and local authority councillors from five years to seven years. Although he was granted bail on August 3, 2026, he continues to face a charge of “incitement to conduct an unlawful gathering.” Amnesty International has raised concerns that prosecuting an individual for encouraging participation in a peaceful gathering may violate the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. The ongoing prosecution risks discouraging individuals from exercising these fundamental rights.
This case reflects broader concerns regarding civic space, freedom of expression, and the right to peaceful assembly in Zimbabwe. Civil society organizations, opposition groups, activists, and ordinary citizens play an important role in public debate and democratic participation. When individuals face criminal charges for encouraging peaceful civic engagement, concerns arise about whether people can safely express their views, organize, and participate in public life. These concerns extend beyond a single individual. The ability to peacefully gather, advocate for change, and express differing opinions is essential to a healthy and democratic society and is protected under both domestic and international human rights standards.
“Freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly are not abstract principles. They are rights that protect people’s ability to connect with others, share their perspectives, and advocate for change. When these rights are violated, the resulting harm can be felt throughout entire communities,” said Overton.
TRUSU hopes that Prosecutor General Hon. Loice Matanda-Moyo will take immediate action to end the prosecution of Bhekimpilo Mbedzi and drop all charges against him. TRUSU further hopes that Zimbabwean authorities will uphold their responsibility to protect the rights to freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly in accordance with the Constitution of Zimbabwe and international human rights law.
We await a response from the Prosecutor General on this urgent matter.
For More Information
The Amnesty Urgent Actions Program allows the Union to take action regarding international human rights injustices that matter to students. Click this link to see injustices we have addressed previously, and for further information about this issue or to see a copy of the letter, contact the Equity Coordinator below.