Human rights defender's story: Andrew Makoni from Zimbabwe
Andrew Makoni, a lawyer in Zimbabwe, works with Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights to defend freedom of expression and assembly, highlighting challenges as Zimbabwe approached key elections in 2018. Andrew also participated in an ISHR training in 2016.
Andrew Makoni, an attorney at Mbidzo Muchadehama & Makoni Legal Practitioners and a key figure in Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, has actively confronted routine violations of rights to assembly and free expression in Zimbabwe. He has highlighted the frequent arrests of individuals for criticising presidential authority or for organising protests against government policies.
Despite these ongoing challenges, he observed a degree of impartiality within the judiciary in handling human rights cases. Leading up to the critical 2018 elections, Andrew emphasised the vital role of international support in strengthening local activists and pressing for government accountability. His participation in an ISHR training in 2016 was instrumental, broadening his understanding of UN mechanisms and bolstering his advocacy efforts for enhanced respect for human rights amidst Zimbabwe’s complex political landscape.