HARARE – Britain summoned Zimbabwe’s ambassador on Tuesday to register its disquiet over a crackdown on dissent by security forces in Zimbabwe.
Britain’s Minister of State for Africa Harriet Baldwin revealed that she had discussed the crisis with Zimbabwe’s top diplomat in London, Christian Katsande.
“Just spoken to Zimbabwean ambassador regarding this week’s protests in Zimbabwe. Worrying levels of violence – urged restraint from security forces and the need to restore internet access,” Baldwin said on Twitter.
On Wednesday, Britain’s ambassador to Zimbabwe Melanie Robinson said she had also held discussions with Zimbabwean authorities after fuel price protests on Monday triggered a brutal response by the police and military.
Doctors say as many as 72 people have been treated for gunshot wounds, with several fatalities.
“We’ve been following up Minister Baldwin’s conversation last night with the Zimbabwean authorities here today. Continuing to raise our concerns about the violence and fatalities, and urging restraint,” Robinson tweeted.
The European Union’s top envoy in Zimbabwe Timo Olkkonen revealed that the internet blackout, imposed late Monday and partially lifted on Wednesday, had also affected them.
“Zimbabwe is online again,” he tweeted on Wednesday night. “The past days require thorough assessment. It’s clear what has happened is tragic. Priorities now are urgent access to medical services for those that are hurt and guarantee due legal process for detainees. EU is supporting these efforts.”
