[ Home ]
[ Speeches & statements ]
Statement on the detention and release of Mr Morgan Tsvangirai
5 June 2008
Upon being informed by the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) of the arrest of its leader, Mr Morgan Tsvangirai, in Lupane, Zimbabwe yesterday, Southern African Development Community (SADC) Facilitator, President Thabo Mbeki, immediately contacted the government of the Republic of Zimbabwe to ascertain the circumstances of the arrest.
In line with SADC decisions, President Mbeki has urged the government to do everything possible to ensure that every party involved in the forthcoming Presidential run-off does so in conditions that are free and fair.
Further, President Mbeki urges all parties to activate joint monitoring mechanisms as part of creating an environment conducive to the holding of free and fair elections.
Lastly, President Mbeki appeals for calmness and proportionate use of language, the better to manage tensions which are generally associated with election campaigns in many parts of the world.
For more information, please contact:
Mukoni Ratshitanga
Tel: 012 300 5436
Cell: 082 300 3447
Issued by: The Presidency
5 June 2008