Norway condemns the abduction of human rights defender Jestina Mukoko in Zimbabwe

“Norway strongly condemns the abduction of Jestina Mukoko. We call on the Zimbabwe authorities to do everything in their power to ensure that Mukoko is released and brought to safety. Those responsible for her abduction must be brought to justice,” said State Secretary Raymond Johansen of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

Human rights defender Jestina Mukoko, director of the organisation Zimbabwe Peace Project, was taken from her home in Zimbabwe by armed men early yesterday morning. The organisation she heads has received support from Norway for a number of years, and cooperates closely with several Norwegian organisations on human rights issues.  

“The situation in Zimbabwe gives cause for deep concern. The unwillingness of Mugabe and the ruling party to cooperate with the opposition has thrown the country into an ever-worsening crisis. If the parties fail to find a solution to the protracted crisis of government, there is a danger that lawlessness will prevail and the people will lose all their legal safeguards,” said Mr Johansen. 

Zimbabwe’s economy has collapsed, there are widespread food shortages, and the health system is disintegrating. The outbreak of cholera in recent weeks has exacerbated the plight of the country’s long-suffering population.