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Brutal abuse of human rights in Zimbabwe condemned
Alexander Downer, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Australia
September 22, 2006

I strongly condemn the abuse of human rights perpetrated by Zimbabwean police against civilians planning to organize a peaceful protest in various parts of the country on 13 September.

Over 230 individuals were arrested throughout the country as labour leaders from the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions organized marches to present a petition in protest against the economic policies of the Mugabe Government. I am deeply troubled that the Government of Zimbabwe has once again denied its people their rights to freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly.

I am shocked by reports documenting details of the brutal assaults against some of those held in police custody following their arrest. The brutality meted out by police with reports of multiple fractures and assault and access to medical treatment denied, once again shows the complete failure of the Zimbabwean regime to respect fundamental human rights.

Zimbabwe is in a spiraling political and economic free fall and is ever closer to complete collapse. I call on the Mugabe Government to face up to the problems it has brought upon its people and begin a process of national dialogue including with all opposition and civil society before it is too late.

Australia calls on the international community to voice its condemnation of Zimbabwe in the UN Human Rights Council for this brutal betrayal of human rights.

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