Emmerson Mnangagwa, Zimbabwe’s President, reportedly signed the death penalty abolition bill into law on 31 December 2024, bringing an end to the law that had been introduced in what is now Zimbabwe during colonial rule.

The move, the Catholic Bishops say, is a step in the right direction.

“As a Church we welcome and congratulate the nation for the abolition of the Death Penalty Act. That was a step in the right direction indicating we care about human life and dignity,” they say, and add, “We uphold the sovereignty of God, and we will never usurp God's power to decree the span of one's life.”

In their March 3 Lenten Pastoral letter, ZCBC members have, however, acknowledged that there are many areas where “restoration is needed and where a jubilee experience is needed” in the country.

They say that just like most developing countries, Zimbabwe is burdened by sovereign debt. 

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Sadly, they say, international monetary institutions have crafted their policies such that the interest on lending rates for developing countries are so high. The situation, the Bishops note, “keeps developing nations in bondage, fans poverty and holds them in perpetual slavery.’

“We call for a reform of these unjust practices as they speak against development and the hopes of many nations,” Zimbabwe’s Catholic Bishops say, and add, “Developing nations deserve reprieve.”

Here is ZCBC’s prayer for Lent:

Wishing you a blessed Lenten season lived in the spirit of the Jubilee Year 2025.

Lord, may this Lenten season, in the grace of the Jubilee Year,

renew our hearts, strengthen our faith, fill us with hope,

and lead us ever deeper into your mercy and joy.

Amen.