12 February, 2009

For Immediate Release

Zimbabwe’s Second Step in Right Direction

Zimbabweans living in New Zealand say the swearing in of Morgan Tsvangirai as Prime Minister is a significant step following 10 years of destruction.

Save Zimbabwe Campaign New Zealand (SZCNZ) says it is a second step in the right direction after last September’s agreement between ruling and opposition parties.

In his inaugural speech, Tsvangirai noted the many sad realities of a country where schools are closed, health centres are death centres, the civil service is grounded, farms are barely producing and industries operate below 25 percent. However, Tsvangirai vowed to stabilise the country and end political violence.

SZCNZ national coordinator Mandla Akhe Dube wished the new government success in translating words into action.

“This transitional Government of National Unity faces many challenges. Only time will remove doubts by those who choose to see Zimbabwe’s cup as half empty instead of half full.”

The campaign called upon the international community to help build capacity in the new government.

New Zealand could lead by offering to help retrain Zimbabwe’s police force, a body synonymous with brutality and blatant disregard of human rights.

“We also urge the community of nations to help feed the five million hungry Zimbabweans between now and the 2009/10 farming season which starts in November.”

Mr Dube called upon Zimbabweans at home and abroad to help their shattered country re-build. “We all have a role to play.”

ENDS

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