The International Federation of Journalist (IFJ) today condemned the arrest of members of the Zimbabwean Confederation of Trade Unions (ZCTU) during their peaceful demonstrations against the devastating consequences of the economic crisis in the country.

"The IFJ protests at this violation of human rights and the peaceful right to protest," said Aidan White, IFJ General Secretary, in a letter to President Robert Mugabe. "Trade unions have a right to demonstrate peacefully against economic and social policies affecting their members."

According to the International Trade Union Confederation, 69 ZCTU members, including its Secretary General Wellington Chibebe, were arrested on 3 December during demonstrations held in various cities including Harare, Kariba, Karoi, Gweru, Bulawayo and Zvishavane.

The arrests took place after violent police intervention against demonstrators who were delivering petitions to major banks to highlight the overwhelming economic hardship on society in Zimbabwe.

The IFJ has condemned the police brutality and calls on the government of Zimbabwe to ensure physical safety of those still in custody who must be released immediately and unconditionally.

For more information contact the IFJ at + 32 2 235 2207

The IFJ represents over 600,000 journalists in 123 countries worldwide