MDC-T calls for unconditional lifting of sanctions

Source: MDC-T calls for unconditional lifting of sanctions – NewsDay Zimbabwe December 18, 2017

THE MDC-T on Friday called for the unconditional lifting of all forms of sanctions imposed against Zimbabwe, after MDC Alliance members were accused of calling on Washington to maintain its economic embargo until after the holding of free and fair elections.

By NQOBANI NDLOVU

This came as Foreign Affairs and International Trade minister, Sibusiso Moyo on Wednesday attacked MDC Alliance officials Nelson Chamisa and Tendai Biti and activists Dewa Mavhinga and Peter Godwin for ostensibly urging the United States to maintain sanctions against Zimbabwe.

The emotive subject of sanctions has divided opinion among a cross section of Zimbabweans, with Chamisa insisting that Moyo had misunderstood their mission.

Yesterday, MDC-T spokesperson, Obert Gutu said the party wanted all kinds of sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe lifted to give the country a fresh start after years of economic collapse blamed on former President Robert Mugabe’s policies.

“All forms of sanctions that were imposed against Zimbabwe must be IMMEDIATELY removed!!!,” Gutu posted on Facebook.

In an interview with Southern Eye, Gutu said that is the party position.

“That is our party position. The MDC-T is against and does not believe in any forms of sanctions, and we are saying they must be lifted,” he said.

On Thursday, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, while addressing a central committee ahead of Zanu PF’s extraordinary congress, also called for the “unconditional lifting of the political and economic sanctions, which have crippled our national development”.

“We realise that isolation is not splendid or viable, as there is more to gain through solidarity, mutual beneficial partnerships, which, however, recognise our unique national interests. Government will, thus, pursue a robust re-engagement process to fully affirm our belonging to the family of nations,” he said.

Zanu PF blames sanctions for ruining the country’s economy, while the opposition has for years argued otherwise, saying the ruling party’s policies have, had a knock-on effect on the economy and chased away investment.