BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI
The Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG) is seeking a lawyer to challenge the government’s plan to cull around 200 elephants.
According to the organization’s Terms of Reference, “CNRG is seeking to engage a qualified and experienced lawyer to lead a legal case in response to the Zimbabwe government’s plans to cull around 200 elephants ostensibly to support hunger-stricken families.”
The organization is opposed to the culling, which they believe is illegal and would have devastating effects on the elephant population and the environment.
As stated in the Terms of Reference, the lawyer will be responsible for reviewing the government’s plan, analyzing its legality, and identifying potential legal grounds for challenging it.
The lawyer will also be responsible for preparing legal documents, including a lawsuit, and representing CNRG in court.
The organization is looking for a lawyer with expertise in environmental and wildlife law, human rights and constitutional law, and international law.
As CNRG states, “The consultant will be required to assess the legality of the decision, its implications on Zimbabwe’s elephant herd and the rights of future generations to Zimbabwe’s wildlife heritage, elephants in particular.”
The organization believes that the government’s plan is not only illegal but also unethical and would have long-term negative impacts on the environment, tourism and local communities.
The deadline for applications is not specified, but CNRG says that the position is available immediately.