- Zimbabwe withdraws charges against environmental activist
- Activists actively resisted Chinese nationals exploration of coal
The Zimbabwean government has withdrawn charges against environmental activist and Chairperson Hwange Dinde Development Association Never Tshuma. Mr Shuma was arrested in April while actively resisting the exploration of coal in Katambe village. The Chinese Beifar Investments is currently exploring coal in the area under the Beifa Investment Coal project.
Confirming the withdrawal of the charges against Mr Tshumba, the Centre for Natural Resources (CNRG), in a statement, said, ”The state has withdrawn, Friday 30 July case against the leader of Dinde Resident Association Never Tshuma. The reason for withdrawal was not given,”
”Tshuma was arrested on April 15, 2021, on allegations of inciting violence after Katambe Community members, stormed Beifa Investments exploration site in defence of their land rights.”, the statement read. ”Banishing Never Tshuma from his rural home served as a painful reminder of the repressive colonial laws inherited by independent Zimbabwe which were used to contain Zimbabweans’ resistance to colonial rule.”
The CNRG further stated that the arrest and detention of Mr Tshuma were against his right to demand transparency and accountability on the Beifa Investment coal project. The CNRG also condemns the grant of the coal exploration license.
”The CNRG condemns the granting of exploration and mining rights on land that belongs to communities and the persecution of individuals and communities defending their heritage.”