Job Sikhala is a Zimbabwean opposition figure, democracy activist, and human rights lawyer, recently released after nearly 600 days of pre-trial detention.
His activism began as a student leader at the University of Zimbabwe, and then as a member of the Zimbabwe National Students Union. Sikhala’s political journey started in 1999 when he joined the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), marking the start of his relentless opposition to the ruling Zanu-PF party under Robert Mugabe’s leadership. He was first elected as a member of Parliament in 2000, a role he held for several years. His outspoken nature and assertive demeanor quickly garnered attention as he challenged Zimbabwe’s authoritarian government and addressed issues including government corruption and human rights abuses. In March 2003, he was detained and severely tortured alongside a few of his allies on politically motivated charges.
Throughout his 25-year tenure in opposition, Sikhala endured over 60 arrests, most recently in June 2022, until his release in January 2024. Sikhala’s arbitrary detention for close to two years drew international attention. Upon his release, Sikhala reaffirmed his commitment to the struggle against injustice, vowing to intensify his efforts despite ongoing legal challenges. Currently, he is the chairman of the National Democratic Working Group. His resilience and dedication to the cause have cemented his legacy as a prominent figure in Zimbabwean politics.
