Earlier, a South African judge ruled that the cargo of rocket-propelled grenades, mortar rounds and ammunition could not be transported overland.
Human rights groups had petitioned for a block on the arms and dockers had refused to unload the shipment. The ship is now on its way to Angola.
The timing for shipping such military equipment amidst political impasse in the country causes great concern. We fear Zimbabwe will use the arms to repress political opposition. Why the Zimbabwe government buy guns while its people grapple with food shortages baffles many.
This, among the continued human rights violations is why Zimbabweans in Bristol are calling for a demonstration of Democracy in Zimbabwe on Saturday 26 April, 12 noon – 2pm at the water fountains in the City Centre.
Forward Maisokwadzo
Chair, BZA
079 19894 900
25.4.2008
11:22
Democracy in Zimbabwe demonstration
Dear friends,
A Chinese ship carrying arms destined for Zimbabwe has been forced to leave the South African port of Durban four days after failing to unload.