Tearfund backs call for peace in Zimbabwe
(posted 20-Jun-2008)

Tearfund is adding its voice to calls by African leaders for an end to violence and intimidation in Zimbabwe in the run-up to the forthcoming presidential election.

Dozens of prominent figures, including Archbishop Desmond Tutu, ex-UN boss Kofi Annan, 18 former presidents, judges, academics and business leaders have signed an open letter calling for a free and fair poll on 27 June.

The Archbishop of York, John Sentamu, has added his name, urging for Zimbabweans to be allowed to express their political will freely.

And the public are also being urged to lend their support by signing up at www.zimbabwe-27June.com The letter says, “As Africans, we consider the forthcoming elections to be critical.

“We are aware of the attention of the world. More significantly we are conscious of the huge number of Africans who want to see a stable, democratic and peaceful Zimbabwe.

“Consequently, we are deeply troubled by the current reports of intimidation, harassment and violence.

“It is vital that the appropriate conditions are created so that the presidential run-off is conducted in a peaceful, free and fair manner.

“Only then can the political parties conduct their election campaigning in a way that enables the citizens to express freely their political will.

“In this context, we call for an end to the violence and intimidation and the restoration of full access for humanitarian and aid agencies.”

The signatories also call for independent observers to verify the results of the second round contest.