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Zimbabwe Warns Britain Against Demonizing President
Zimbabwean Vice President Joseph Msika has warned the British government against demonizing President Robert Mugabe, saying that it would not help mend the already strained bilateral relations, The Herald newspaper reported on Tuesday.
Msika's comments followed an intensive campaign against President Mugabe by the British government and the British press ahead of next year's presidential elections.
He told new British High Commissioner to Zimbabwe Brian Donnelly on Monday that if the British government was really interested in mending relations with Zimbabwe, it was imperative that it desists from ridiculing President Mugabe.
"As a starting point, I think it will be paramount for you to stop demonizing President Mugabe as this will not help in mending relations," said Msika.
Donnelly, who had paid a courtesy call on Msika, later told reporters that it was not the intention of the British government to cause disorder in Zimbabwe.
He said that wherever possible, Britain would always strive to maintain and accord the necessary respect both to the Zimbabwean government and people, including President Mugabe.
"Britain's objective is to see a stable and peaceful Zimbabwe. We are not trying to destabilize the country in any way, but to help the country in a peaceful transition," said Donnelly.
He further noted that the British government was pursuing a policy of constructive engagement so as to mend relations between the two countries.
The British diplomat said in principle his country was not opposed to land redistribution, adding Britain would always support a transparent and equitable land redistribution process in Zimbabwe.
However, he stressed: "There are issues, such as respect for the rule of law, which Zimbabwe has to adhere to before Britain can assist in the land reform program."
Donnelly denied that Britain was involved in the disturbances that took place in Mashonaland West province in recent weeks, where over 21 white commercial farmers allegedly assaulted resettled farmers.
He also denied that the British government was supporting the opposition Movement for Democratic Change of Zimbabwe.
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