The EU representative to Zimbabwe, Aldo DellAriccia told journalists that the 27-member block was closely monitoring events unfolding in the country and would consider removing travel bans on more individuals who have been perpetrating human rights abuses since the turn of the century – depending upon real progress being made with respect for human rights. He recalled that the restrictive measures were originally imposed on certain persons based on their involvement in serious human rights violations and the disrespect of the Rule of Law.
There is a process on-going in Zimbabwe, with support from the region, to normalise relations in the country. These are encouraging signals and we hope that they will lead to an election acceptable to all, said DellAriccia.
The roadmap – a result of SADC intervention – identifies among other things the opening up of the broadcast sector, which is currently de-facto controlled by Zanu (PF), completion of the constitution-writing process and the reconsideration of the electoral laws in Zimbabwe as among the top priorities to be implemented before an election.
The EU has remained steadfast in its support to the people of Zimbabwe and negotiations for reengagement between the two parties are still continuing.
There is political dialogue between the EU and Harare. We have had one meeting since the beginning of the year and there will hopefully be others. The timing is dependent upon the Foreign Ministry, said the Ambassador.
Post published in: News