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*FULL TEXT: MDC Alliance Statement On Gukurahundi Reburial Process* *Follow Pindula on WhatsApp for daily new updates* https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va84dngJP21B2nWeyM3v?sd > GUKURAHUNDI REBURIAL PROCESS MUST ADDRESS HISTORICAL INJUSTICES > We note with concern plans by the State to fast-track exhumations and reburials of Gukurahundi victims before there has been any accountability for the massacres and without the consultative participation of all stakeholders, particularly survivors and victims. > Over 20 000 people were killed during Gukurahundi in Matabeleland and the Midlands between 1983 and 1987. Most of the victims were buried in shallow graves. > However, over three decades later, there has been no formal acknowledgement or apology from the State for the commission of this genocide and the grave atrocities that took place. > The perpetrators have never been brought to book. The proposed reburials constitute the first indirect, official acknowledgement of the atrocities. > While the reburial of the victims is important, the surviving relatives and other key stakeholders must be heard and consulted on how the process should be carried out. > The communities that were affected must play a central role in the reburials through their traditional leaders and churches. > Truth-telling and justice must accompany any redress for survivors. The evidence associated with the atrocities must be carefully managed. > This is the only way we can ensure that there is full closure on this important national issue. > We call for a transparent, comprehensive, inclusive, gender-sensitive and consultative transitional justice process for the victims and survivors of Gukurahundi. > The process should be victim-centred and must involve representatives of all stakeholders including the traditional leaders, the surviving victims, rights-based groups, the Church and civic society. Reburials must be a part of this comprehensive process, not a standalone initiative. > The MDC Alliance stands for restorative justice, rehabilitative justice and, in appropriate cases, restitutive justice. > Reburying the victims without healing, justice, truth-telling and reparations will undoubtedly result in the wounds resurfacing in the future to the detriment of nation-building, lasting peace and reconciliation. > Hon Blessing Chebundo Secretary for National Healing, Reconciliation and Integration _If you found this article useful_ *Please support Pindula by forwarding to friends and groups*
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