EP - Situation in Zimbabwe

Joint motion for a resolution on Zimbabwe
Doc.: B6-0212/2004, B6-0217/2004, B6-0219/2004, B6-0225/2004, B6-0227/2004, B6-0230/2004, B6-0231/2004
Debate/Vote: 16.12.2004

Vote

In adopting a joint resolution by 76 votes in favour, 0 against with 1 abstention, MEPs insist that all political interference in the distribution of international food aid be halted without delay, to prevent the Zanu-PF government from using food as a political weapon. The House insists that repressive legislation such as the Public Order and Security Act be repealed and that the forthcoming elections in Zimbabwe be held in accordance with the SADC principles and guidelines governing democratic elections, including those agreed in Mauritius on 17 August 2004, with unimpeded access for international observers and an end to intimidation of opposition supporters. Parliament demands the immediate release of Roy Bennett MP and the cessation of all violence and intimidation towards his family and employees.

MEPs call upon Zimbabwe's neighbours and, in particular, President Thabo Mbeki of South Africa, who recently addressed the European Parliament, to undertake on behalf of the people of Zimbabwe to bring about change for the better and ensure that the Zimbabwean Government fully cooperates with SADC and the wider international community to guarantee free and fair elections and a robust and timely international monitoring presence. Parliament welcomes the steps taken by the African Union Commission on Human and People's Rights to report on abuses in Zimbabwe, and stresses that the AU must continue to monitor, and also act in regard to, the human rights, civil rights and political situation in Zimbabwe and to keep up this process of peer review throughout Africa. Finally, the House reiterates its demand to the Council and Commission that loopholes in the EU's targeted sanctions against the Mugabe regime be closed, and that the sanctions be rigorously enforced. MEPs also request that the Council and Commission provide maximum support for international efforts to ensure free and fair elections in Zimbabwe, and in particular technical support to local, regional and international observer missions.

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