ZANU PF and MDC Sign Memorandum of Understanding

Zimbabwe Watch welcomes the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Zimbabwe African National Union Zanu PF and the two formations of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) on July 21st. Zimbabwe Watch calls on Zanu PF to undertake immediate actions to halt the human rights abuses and allow humanitarian and other organisations to operate freely. The spirit of this memorandum must be translated into practice.

On July 21 2008,a memorandum of understanding was signed between Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU PF) and the two formations of the Movement for Democratic Change MDC . The signing was under the auspices of SADC and supported and endorsed by the AU. The main objective of the talks is to save the country from a deepening socio-economic and humanitarian crises worsened by the disputed 27 June 2008 election run off between Robert Mugabe andMorgan Tsvangirai,who later withdrew from the race after many of his supporters had been killed.The memorandum was signed by Robert Mugabe, Morgan Tsvangirai and Arthur Mutambara.

The signing of the MOU is an acknowledgement that there is a crisis in the country, from both parties and is a commitment by both parties to begin negotiations aimed at ending the crisis through dialogue and building a society free from fear, violence and hate. It further wishes to restore equality, dignity ,openness and transparency.

The MOU has interim measures that both parties would will work together to end political violence, apply the law fairly and justly and ensure the safety of displaced persons and the return to their homes. As part of the interim measures both parties pledged to work together to resume the work of humanitarian and social welfare organisations and ensuring they have access to those in need.