‘Canada cannot waver on principles’—MDC

By Tichaona Sibanda
16 August 2006

Movement for Democratic Change activists in Canada have ‘condemned unreservedly’ the invitation and permission for entry into that country by Zimbabwe’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Simbarashe Mumbengegwi.

The activists said they will petition Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper on the issue to avoid future and similar incidents. A few months ago Ignatious Chombo the Local Government minister was also granted permission into that country despite a travel ban on all senior Zanu (PF) officials.

Andrew Manyevere, chairman of the Tsvangirai led MDC in Toronto, said Wednesday Canada is fully aware that Mugabe’s regime is responsible for failing to run the economy properly and affecting them spiritually and physically.

‘Its either sanctions or never, but not being caught in between. If the Zimbabwe government misuses funds, can the permission to have Mumbengegwi here bring salvation to the people? asked Manyevere.

He added; ‘We also urge the Canadian authorities not to be flip flopping on the issue of sanctions, but to remain resolute on the ban. These are the same guys (Zanu PF regime) who will refuse aid from the many of the donors attending the Aids conference in Toronto.’

Manyevere also questioned the significance of having Mumbwengegwi in Canada when, at the end of the day, Robert Mugabe brandishes Western countries as evil and bent on removing him from power.

‘This is why I passionately say we Zimbabweans in Canada are hurting that the same people who oppress others back home, have free rides on tax payers’ money to come on holidays under the pretext of attending an Aids conference,’ Manyevere said.

The opinion of MDC activists in Canada he added is that the Aids pandemic in Zimbabwe shall not be solved by the world having sympathy with those who ignore human rights, including denying people medicines.