Zimbabwe parliament passes 'Patriotic Bill' outlawing criticism of government

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Zimbabwe has passed a law known as the “Patriotic Bill”, which prohibits and criminalises citizens who “wilfully damage the sovereignty and national interest” of the country.

Parliament, where Zanu-PF has a majority of seats, passed the Criminal Law Code Amendment Bill on Wednesday night, which also prohibits communication with foreign government officials when that information may “harm the country’s positive image and integrity or reputation”.

People are barred from issuing statements deemed unpatriotic, attending meetings inside and outside Zimbabwe aimed at overthrowing the government, or to lobby for economic sanctions and trade boycotts. Penalties include sentences of up to 20 years, depending on the severity of the crimes, while anyone pCritics have described the bill as one of the most oppressive laws yet to be passed in the country.The bill seeks to undermine the fundamental principles of freedom of association and assembly, and threatens to stifle free speech. This is a dark chapter in our nation and political forum.”

 

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