Isolation Behind Bars: Activist Godfrey Karembera Speaks From Remand Prison

HARARE – Detained political activist Godfrey Karembera, widely known as Madzibaba Veshanduko, says life inside a Zimbabwean remand prison has become a test of endurance marked by isolation, uncertainty, and dwindling support from former allies. Once a visible figure in Harare’s opposition activism circles, known for his street satire and mobilisation efforts, Karembera now describes a starkly different reality.

“Maybe they are failing to visit me for valid reasons,” he said during a recent prison interview. “I remember when Ostallos (Gift Siziba) wanted to visit me, it took him a lot to get authorisation. Maybe they are facing the same challenges. But I haven’t heard from them for a long time.”

Karembera, a supporter of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), was arrested in October 2025 following what police described as a high-speed pursuit. Authorities allege he distributed pamphlets linked to a planned protest known as the “One Million Men March,” reportedly associated with late liberation war veteran Blessed Geza. The State is relying on provisions of the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (MOPA), legislation that has drawn criticism from human rights groups for its impact on freedoms of assembly and expression.

Karembera denies wrongdoing, arguing that his actions have been misinterpreted.

“I never sold out. I have been consistent about my position. The charges laid against me are just unfounded,” he said.

His case comes amid broader concerns over shrinking civic space in Zimbabwe. Legal and political observers have pointed to similar arrests involving opposition figures, including former CCC legislator Jameson Timba, who was detained alongside others in 2024. Authorities have defended such actions as necessary to maintain public order, previously warning that some gatherings pose a “counter-revolutionary insurrection” risk.

However, civil society organisations argue that the language reflects a securitised approach to political dissent. Critics have also raised concerns over laws such as the Private Voluntary Organisations Amendment Act, which they say increases state oversight of civic groups. Political analyst Dr Tendai Moyo said the situation reflects a growing tension between security and civil liberties.

“Zimbabwe is witnessing a tightening regulatory environment. The challenge is balancing legitimate security concerns with constitutional rights,” he said.

Beyond the legal battle, Karembera says his detention has had severe economic consequences for his family.

“My eldest sons, aged 22 and 18, are currently unemployed. We used to survive on projects I was doing, but now everything has stopped,” he said.

His wife, Enia Musora, described the daily struggle to cope.

“Taking care of the children alone is not easy, and sometimes we fail even to bring him something to eat. We are trying, but life has become very hard,” she said.

Karembera also expressed disappointment at what he perceives as abandonment by political allies. While acknowledging logistical challenges in accessing prisons, he suggested that internal divisions within opposition ranks may also be a factor. Observers say such claims highlight ongoing factional tensions within opposition politics, which have at times weakened coordinated responses to arrests and detentions. As Karembera awaits the next stage of his legal process, his case continues to draw attention from both political and human rights circles, raising broader questions about dissent, due process, and the human cost of prolonged pre-trial detention in Zimbabwe.

Godfrey Karembera arrest