Christian Organization in Zimbabwe “condemns” Politicization of Development Agenda

They underscore the role of truth in peace and reconciliation efforts saying such “creates the basis for reconciliation, by creating a conducive environment where both perpetrators and victims meet.” 

Truth “exposes the hidden matter concealed by those who usually use violence as an instrument of power, for example in politics,” they say, adding that truth “enables a clear flow of facts up to the final point – an essential movement from negative peace to positive peace.” 

CCCOP officials further say that truth “enables an understanding and appreciation of different truths and how they can be used to promote justice, as retributive or restorative.”

They add, “Truth seeking enables an understanding of trends in searching for the truth, reflecting on the coherence of facts and ideas, and later sets a precedent for future usages.”

As a way forward, representatives of the four-member entity invite all church entities in Zimbabwe “to reflect on their call and response to issues of truth and reconciliation and the challenges they encounter in searching for the truth in the event of violations of people's fundamental rights.”

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They further note that by virtue of human life being protected by Section 48 and 51 of the 2013 Constitution of Zimbabwe, “the State and all its agencies are obliged to protect and promote human dignity.”

“In the event of failure to do so, the Church calls the Government to account for any act, which is ultra vires and calls the same government to guarantee the people protection and a speedy remedy towards the reparation of the damage suffered,” officials of the Zimbabwe-based entity say in their March 24 statement.

Proclaimed in December 2010 by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the International Day for the Right to the Truth Concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims is celebrated annually in memory of the slain Archbishop of El Salvador’s Archdiocese of San Salvador, Saint Oscar Romero.

Known for denouncing human rights violations in the Central American nation, Archbishop Romero was assassinated on 24 March 1980 while celebrating the Eucharist at a Church-run hospital for the terminally ill in San Salvador.

In his message for the Day, UN’s Secretary General, Antonio Guterres says, “The truth is an empowering and healing force.  We embrace it for the past, the present and the future.”