Geoffrey Van Orden MEP commented:
"The situation in Zimbabwe continues to be most disturbing but there are some glimmers of light. We heard first-hand accounts of the recent upsurge in violence and intimidation against those that Mugabe fears. But at last, Zimbabwe's neighbours have begun to demand action.
"We have always advocated an African solution to the ongoing problems in Zimbabwe and are pleased that, at long-last, SADC (the Southern African Development Community) has recognised the true nature of the situation and has called for an end to all political violence and for free, democratic elections that meet international standards.
"Elections are not a single event but a process. A road map to elections needs to be set out. Elections cannot be judged free in an atmosphere of intimidation and where the media does not give expression to all opinions. The people need education in the electoral process and a proper system of voter registration needs to begin very soon.
"Zimbabwean delegates also agreed that until there is real evidence of change, the EU's "restrictive measures" – aimed specifically against Mugabe and his inner circle and not bearing in any way on the wider Zimbabwean population – must remain in place and be better explained."
Post published in: Politics