Zimbabwe's Second Step in Right Direction

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Thursday, 12 February 2009, 3:44 pm
Press Release: Save Zimbabwe

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."