ZIMBABWE: RESPONSIBILITY NOW RESTS WITH AFRICAN NEIGHBOURS

Fiona Hall MEP <info@fionahall.org.uk>

ZIMBABWE: RESPONSIBILITY NOW RESTS WITH AFRICAN NEIGHBOURS - HALL

July 10, 2008 12:00 AM

A resolution on the situation in Zimbabwe, passed by the European Parliament today, says that a transitional government of national unity would help end the climate of terror sweeping through Zimbabwe since the presidential elections campaign started.

The resolution also asks to tighten up sanctions against members of the Mugabe regime and others responsible for grave violations of human rights, if mediation efforts by the Southern African Development Community are not accepted and the state-sponsored violence is not ended, and to press for sanctions to be adopted at UN level, including an arms embargo.

Commenting, Graham Watson MEP, Leader of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe, said: "It is high time that the African Union took real action. No longer can this conspiracy of silence continue. One wonders why the International Criminal Court has not yet issued a warrant for Mugabe's arrest."

Fiona, Liberal Democrat Development Spokesperson, added: "In addition to the strengthening of sanctions the EU should offer diplomatic support to those seeking to find a way forward via an interim transitional government that involves all parties and civil society and respects the results of the first round of elections.

"A transitional coalition is an African approach that has worked over the years in a number of other countries such as Togo and the Democratic Republic of Congo. But President Mbeki's diplomacy has failed, and a different African neighbour respected by all sides should assist with brokering such negotiations. International accompaniment to the negotiations would also be helpful.

"The Commission and Member States should start planning ahead for the day when Zimbabwe has a legitimate government and will need a broad package of international support. But ordinary Zimbabweans are in desperate straits and need basic aid now, just to survive".