WASHINGTON, United States – President Emmerson Mnangagwa must implement reforms and open an inclusive national dialogue to resolve the country’s worsening socio-economic and political crises, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged on Sunday.
In a congratulatory statement marking 41 years of Zimbabwe’s independence, Blinken said while the occasion was worth celebrating, Washington recognized the “continued struggle” for Zimbabweans to “secure the rights and freedoms enshrined in their constitution.”
“We encourage the Government of Zimbabwe to support reforms to advance these constitutional rights and embrace an inclusive national dialogue that upholds the universal values Zimbabweans have fought so hard to gain,” the top U.S. diplomat said.
Blinken’s remarks came a day after Mnangagwa ruled out any talks with bitter rival Nelson Chamisa in a televised interview accusing the opposition leader of going “to America to ask for sanctions,” adding “before they cut that biblical cord (sic) with the Americans it is difficult to be proper Zimbabweans.”
U.S. President Joe Biden renewed travel and financial sanctions targeting Mnangagwa and his allies last month accusing them of ongoing human rights violations and shutting down the democratic space, allegations Harare vehemently denies.
Critics charge that abuses are on the increase as Mnangagwa steps up attacks on activists ahead of general elections in 2023, with several opposition MDC Alliance members already jailed or facing prosecutions.
Pro-democracy campaigner and opposition activist Makomborero Haruzivishe is currently serving a 14 months’ prison sentence for “resisting arrest and inciting violence” while Harare West MP Joana Mamombe and Cecilia Chimbiri are also locked up awaiting trial on charges of violating Covid-19 regulations.
Other opposition activists Lengwani Mavhunga and Munyaradzi Mafararikwa were hospitalized Saturday after they were severely tortured by police while in custody. A magistrate has ordered an investigation.
The two were arrested last week while attending a court hearing for MDC Alliance national deputy chairman Job Sikhala, one of the several opposition figures facing prosecutions.
In view of the escalating crackdown, Blinken pledged support for “all Zimbabweans who aspire to a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous future.”
“To that end, we will join with the Zimbabwean people to strengthen democratic institutions, promote equitable economic growth, boost public health, and improve food security,” Blinken said.
He added: “On behalf of the Government of the United States, I offer congratulations to the Zimbabwean people on the 41st anniversary of your country’s independence. Please accept my best wishes on this auspicious day”
