In a recent development, the Church in Zimbabwe has taken a bold step towards advocating for the promotion of human dignity, justice, and moral values in collaboration with the government. This initiative aims to build a society that respects life and protects the vulnerable.

Following the abolition of the death penalty in Zimbabwe by President Emmerson Mnangagwa on December 31, 2024, the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace in Zimbabwe (CCJPZ) has issued a call for the government to join hands with the Church in advancing these noble principles.

The pastoral message, signed by the CCJPZ and Catholic Parliamentary Liaison Office (CPLO) Chairman, Bishop Rudolf Nyandoro of Gweru diocese, emphasizes the importance of a strengthened partnership between religious institutions and the state to create a more just and compassionate society where every individual is valued and protected.

Embracing Hope and Dignity

Bishop Nyandoro, drawing inspiration from the theme of the Jubilee year, ‘Pilgrims of Hope’, highlights the need to renew faith and commitment to being disciples of Christ, both in physical and spiritual realms. He stresses the importance of condemning wrongs while embracing the dignity of individuals, urging the Church and government to work together in providing support and counseling services to victims’ families.

Preventing Injustice

The Bishop also addresses the issue of extra-judicial killings in Zimbabwe, emphasizing the sanctity of human life as a fundamental principle of Christian faith. He advocates for a combination of moral guidance and legal frameworks to address social injustices, promote peace, and strengthen policies that protect human rights.

In conclusion, Bishop Nyandoro celebrates the abolition of the death penalty as a significant step towards fostering a more compassionate society. He calls for dialogue on restorative justice and the value of every human life, highlighting the importance of collaboration between the Church and the government in promoting these shared values.