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The situation in Zimbabwe calls for credible mediation
South African Catholic Bishops' Conference
April 11, 2008

The situation in Zimbabwe is of regional, continental and international concern. As President of the Southern African Catholic Bishops' Conference and on behalf of the Catholic Community in Southern Africa, I call on the leaders of the Southern African Development Community and the African Union to act swiftly to diffuse this tension by mandating a mediator of sufficient international repute, such as Kofi Annan, to ensure a solution that is acceptable to all Zimbabweans.

I urge President Mbeki, the leaders of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and African Union leaders to use all of their influence and skill to intervene for the release of the Zimbabwean election results.

The apparent impunity and lack of respect for the democratic process that has allowed this delay is a cause for grave concern. The postponement of the release of the results has only fuelled tension and fear in Zimbabwe. The credibility of a peaceful vote has been undermined by this delay and the posturing by political parties. This time of uncertainty has created an opportunity for lawlessness.

I trust that the concerns and future of the people of Zimbabwe will be placed first.

Archbishop Buti Tlhagale OMI.
Archbishop of Johannesburg.
President of the Southern African Catholic Bishops' Conference.

*Issued by Fr Chris Townsend, Information Officer of the SACBC, on behalf of Archbishop Buti Tlhagale OMI, President of the SACBC.

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