Churches Condemn Harare Arson Attacks, Call for Independent Probes

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches has condemned suspected arson attacks in Harare targeting SAPES Trust and a rights activist’s home (image source)

HARARE – The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has denounced a series of suspected arson attacks in the capital, including the firebombing of SAPES Trust offices in Belgravia and the torching of the home of Constitutional Defence Forum member Gilbert Mbwende. The council described the incidents as assaults on peace, human dignity, and civil liberties, urging swift and independent investigations.

In a statement released Wednesday, the ZCC called the attacks “a deeply troubling development” and appealed for transparent probes by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission, and the Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission. The church body insisted that perpetrators must be brought to justice without delay.

Eyewitnesses and civic organisations reported that the SAPE’s Trust premises were targeted shortly before a scheduled press conference on constitutional matters, raising suspicion that the blaze was intended to intimidate civil-society actors and silence public debate. Human-rights advocates also reported the alleged abduction of a security guard during the incident—claims the ZCC cited in pressing for an impartial inquiry.

ZimRights, one of the country’s leading rights organisations, condemned the fire as a politically motivated act aimed at stifling legitimate civic engagement. The group warned that such attacks fuel fear and undermine civil-society operations. Rights monitors have also noted a worrying rise in violence against activists and NGOs in recent months.

Relatives and neighbours confirmed that Mbwende’s home in Highfield was destroyed by fire, leaving the community in shock. The ZCC’s statement appealed for calm and invoked religious teachings on peace, reconciliation, and the sanctity of life.

Authorities have so far released little detail on the progress of investigations. Church leaders and rights groups have criticised the lack of transparency, arguing that internal probes alone are insufficient given the political sensitivity of the targets. The ZCC maintained that independent oversight would strengthen public confidence and deter future attacks.

The council urged religious institutions to help ease tensions through community dialogue and pastoral care. Church leaders said they would engage with national human-rights bodies and parliamentary committees to ensure the safety of civic actors and press for transparent investigations.

As calls for accountability grow louder, civil-society groups have pledged to gather evidence, assist affected families, and pursue legal and diplomatic channels to ensure justice. Observers warn that the government’s response—whether through open investigations or internal handling—will determine public confidence and the future of civic engagement in Harare.