By A Correspondent

The administration of President Emmerson Mnangagwa is facing growing criticism for its handling of Nicole Chabata, a school pupil arrested in August ahead of the SADC Summit.

Chabata is one of the “Avondale 78,” a group of innocent citizens targeted by authorities in a crackdown on perceived ZANU PF opponents before the regional summit.

Political analyst Majaira Jairosi commented on the situation, saying, “This is very sad & sadism at its highest level. He takes his children to see statues in China whilst condemning children of others to a maximum prison.

When you think @edmnangagwa’s evilness can get better, it gets worse. I find it hard to understand why Mnangagwa is like that.”

Chabata, a student who should be preparing for exams, remains in custody despite appeals for her release.

Nicola Watson highlighted the urgency of the situation on X, stating, “Nicole Chabata, one of the Avondale 78, is a student who is supposed to be writing exams this year. She is still in custody.

Tomorrow schools open. #FreeNicoleChabataNow. Bail is a Constitutional right.”

The detention of Chabata has sparked calls for her immediate release, with critics arguing that holding a student in such conditions undermines fundamental rights and justice.