Zimbabwean gay rights campaigners attacked and injured
The leading Zimbabwean LGBT rights group has responded to reports that its members were injured after an attack on Friday.
Gays and Lesbians of Zimbabwe (GALZ), were attacked and injured at the private event on Friday, according to the organisation.
The International HIV/AIDS Alliance on Monday expressed “extreme concern” at the reports that the GALZ members were attacked.
Gavin Reid, the Alliance’s Regional Advisor on Men’s Sexual Health & Rights for East and Southern Africa said: “The International HIV/AIDS Alliance calls upon the Zimbabwean police to investigate the incident and bring the perpetrators to justice. It’s the duty of the Zimbabwean government to protect and promote the rights of all its citizens and to ensure that all Zimbabweans are able to enjoy their full constitutional rights including the right to life, to personal security, to freedom of assembly and association, and to freedom from torture.”
GALZ says a rise in violence against the LGBT community had taken place recently, and that “most at risk groups face living in a climate of fear and criminalised for their behaviour.”
“It not only makes them a target for harassment and violence, but also creates a vacuum when it comes to the provision of healthcare and support services for all minority groups.”
