QUOTES

 

‘We are saddened that Zimbabwe is taking a route that is retrogressive in terms of hampering citizens from exercising their rights. It’s a sad day for Zimbabwe; it’s a sad day for democracy. We are quite taken aback by a government that had made promises that it will enhance or make people enjoy their rights. We are seeing this happening towards an election and this shows that the government does not want any constructive criticism and constructive advice.’

– Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights spokesperson Kumbirai Mafunda after President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Friday signed into law a Bill that imposes penalties on citizens who portray a negative image of the country

 

‘It is deeply concerning and signals a disturbing crackdown on Zimbabweans’ rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association. The weaponisation of the law is a desperate and patent move to curtail the rights to freedom of expression and to public participation in elections due in August.’

– Flavia Mangovya, Amnesty International’s deputy regional director for East and southern Africa

 

‘I assure all Nigerians that no-one will be left behind in these strategic interventions.’

– Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu, who has declared a state of emergency to tackle rising food prices and shortages

 

‘It is a significant milestone for Rwanda, coinciding with the country's celebration of 125 years since the introduction of the gospel. The canonisation of the four nuns holds great importance for the Catholic congregation, as they serve as shining examples of unwavering faith in a world where such dedication is increasingly rare.’

– Rwandan Bishop Vincent Harolimana, reacting to confirmation that two Rwandan nuns who were murdered in Yemen seven years ago are set to be made cannonised as saints

 

‘I am of the opinion that the law has already taken its course. (Simons) has paid for his mistakes, whether he did one or others, leave it in God’s hands. We do not condone any rape or murder but we must not be hypocrites, let us be consistent.’

– South African Human Rights Commissioner Chris Nissen, saying suspected serial killer Norman Simons has served his sentence. Simons, accused but not convicted of being Cape Town’s Station Strangler, will be subjected to stringent parole conditions when he is released on Thursday.