YHRDN Suspends Passport Demonstrations

BY: DRAXON MALOYA

The Human Rights Defenders Network (YHRDN) has announced that they have suspended their planned demonstrations aimed at pressuring the president to fire the Minister of Homeland Security Kenneth Zikhale Ng’oma and the Director of Immigration, Brigadier General Charles Kalumo (retired).

The Human Rights Defenders Network has been a vocal advocate for the rights of individuals, especially those affected by bureaucratic failures and delays. Their decision to suspend the demonstrations in favour of dialogue highlights their commitment to finding peaceful and constructive solutions to the current issues.

YHRDN chairperson, Mervin Nxumayo said the decision comes after weeks of protests and calls for the Minister’s resignation due to the ongoing issues faced by the Immigration Department in issuing passports.

“The decision to suspend the protests follows a series of meetings between the Human Rights Defenders Network and government officials. During these discussions, both parties expressed a willingness to engage in open and honest dialogue to address the challenges faced by the Immigration Department,” Nxumayo said.

However, Nxumayo reiterated stating that while the issue of delayed passport issuance remains a pressing concern, the Human Rights Defenders Network recognizes the importance of working collaboratively with government officials to find lasting solutions.

“By opting for dialogue instead of continued protests, the organization hopes to foster a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect in addressing the underlying issues,” he added.

However, the decision to suspend the demonstrations has been met with mixed reactions from the public, with some see it as a sign of weakness or capitulation, while others view it as a pragmatic approach to achieving tangible results.

But the YHRDN emphasized saying regardless of individual opinions it remains committed to advocating for the rights of all individuals affected by the failures of the Immigration Department.

Another socioeconomic commentator, Tiyane Nyirenda said the decision by the Human Rights Defenders Network to suspend demonstrations in favour of dialogue is a positive step towards finding meaningful solutions to the ongoing issues faced by the Immigration Department.

“By working together with government officials, the organization hopes to achieve lasting change and ensure that the rights of individuals are protected and respected,” Nyirenda said.