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Sweden makes statement on Zim

10 February, 2009

JOHANNESBURG. Gunilla Carlsson, Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation, made a statement on the occasion of Morgan Tsvangirai being sworn in as Prime Minister of Zimbabwe.

“After months of deadlock caused by the ZANU-PF party and Robert Mugabe’s refusal to respect the results of the elections last March, Morgan Tsvangirai has today been sworn in as Prime Minister. It is my hope that the formation of a unity government can be a step towards a solution to the crisis in Zimbabwe,” says Gunilla Carlsson in a statement.

“Now that the MDC is to take its place in the government it is vital that their position is fully respected and that the country’s government can rapidly rally around an extensive reform agenda. I hope that this transitional solution is the beginning of the end to misrule in the country.”

“At the same time it is important that all political prisoners are released immediately and that the country is returned as soon as possible to fully functioning rule of law. Politically-motivated violence must cease immediately, the rule of law and respect for human rights must be restored and the media must regain their freedom. Extensive and rapid macroeconomic reforms must be brought in to halt the catastrophic economic situation in the country. Work must begin on a new constitution and on preparations for new elections.”

“The people of Zimbabwe have great support from the rest of the world. Sweden and the EU have provided major humanitarian support in recent years and we have also supported civil society. We are prepared to further increase our commitments in the country, under the condition that the implementation of reforms begins immediately and that they have an impact in society.”