Zimbabwe Anti-Sanctions Movement Exposes Deep-seated Racism in SA Banks

Zimbabwe Anti-Sanctions Movement (ZASM) has urged the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) to provide its support in addressing the unjust closure of bank accounts and the implementation of illegal sanctions on Zimbabweans. In a recent statement, ZASM highlighted the need for changes in laws across Africa to ensure that access to bank accounts becomes a fundamental right, preventing White-owned banks from targeting Black individuals based on allegations of money laundering or the enforcement of illegal sanctions.

According to the organization, when a western publication or court, often presided over by White judges, accuses an individual of being involved in money laundering, banks are permitted to close their accounts and freeze their assets without due process. Furthermore, challenging these closures in courts, such as those in South Africa, often results in judges stating that banks have the right to choose their customers, even when clear discrimination and punishment occur without a fair trial.

ZASM has pointed out the contrasting treatment when White companies are implicated in money laundering, fraud, or corruption. In such cases, their accounts are not subject to the same stringent closures. ZASM emphasized the urgent need for legislative amendments to address this double standard and protect Africans who are under US sanctions or targeted based on allegations of corruption or money laundering in Zimbabwe.

The movement is currently involved in a legal battle against South African banks, which have been closing the accounts of Zimbabweans targeted by sanctions or labeled as corrupt by the United States. This case aims to challenge the implementation of sanctions on Zimbabweans by financial institutions. Notably, this marks the first time an African court has held the US President accountable and compelled them to apply for immunity.

ZASM is determined to contest the immunity application, drawing inspiration from Afri Forum’s similar action regarding Grace Mugabe’s case. The movement asserts that for over two decades, the US government has coerced South African companies into violating their own laws to enforce what has been labelled ‘illegal’ US sanctions on Zimbabweans, all without due process.

ZASM has called upon the President of the Pan-African Parliament Honorable Chief Charumbira, members of the African Parliament enlist the assistance of the Pan-African Parliament, as well as influential figures across Africa to support their cause. The organization seeks to highlight the issue of Zimbabwean sanctions and combat the closure of bank accounts unjustly. By driving this agenda, ZASM hopes to initiate legislative changes across African parliaments, promoting fair and equal treatment for all African citizens against the mostly White-owned and racist banking system.

In addition, the ZASM aims to bring attention to the challenges faced by Zimbabweans and create a platform for meaningful dialogue and change within the continent. As the issue gains momentum, it remains to be seen how the Pan-African Parliament and other influential figures will respond to ZASM’s demands and work toward a solution that upholds justice, equality, and the rights of all African citizens.