Maravi

(HERALD) Tsvangirai blasts West

Tsvangirai blasts West
By Takunda Maodza

THE inclusive Government has done everything possible to reform all sectors of the economy in the short space of time it has been in office and one wonders what else should be done to please Western donors, Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai said yesterday.

PM Tsvangirai was responding to assertions by a group of 17 "like-minded" Western donor countries, which met recently in the United States and pledged to assist Zimbabwe on condition that "it demonstrate its commitment to reform".

On his first day in office since the death of his wife Susan, PM Tsvangirai told journalists that there was no need to doubt reforms being embarked on and urged Zimbabweans to place their hopes on the inclusive Government.

"This country has embarked on a number of reforms — the constitutional process, legislative reforms, economic reforms, media reforms . . . I do not know what other reforms they are talking about.

"I see no reason why everyone should doubt these reforms," he said.

At their meeting in Washington DC on March 20, Western countries agreed to work with Government to achieve specific goals identified in the broad-based agreement.

These included the restoration of the rule of law, economic stabilisation and growth, freedom of assembly, commitment to democratic processes and an end to "farm invasions".

They commended reform efforts undertaken by the inclusive Government and progress achieved so far.

PM Tsvangirai said the matter of alleged farm invasions was being dealt with.

"This is a matter of concern to us. Chaos is the last thing that should be in our minds. There is a process on land reform we have to follow . . . I have assigned the Joint Monitoring and Implementation Committee to address the issue."

He said Zimbabwe was on a recovery path.

"To Zimbabweans, your placing hope on this Government is not false. It is real," he said.

He gave a brief insight into his working relationship with President Mugabe.

"We have our regular meetings . . . I report to him every Monday.

"We operate on business-like relationship. Of course, we disagree from time to time, but not in a manner which is antagonistic. It is a productive relationship," he said.

President Mugabe has described his relationship with PM Tsvangirai as brotherly.

PM Tsvangirai, who has been on compassionate leave in South Africa, said he had recuperated and looked forward to the challenging responsibilities ahead.

"Well, it has been difficult, but I think like any other person who has lost a loved one you have to manage to get over it," he said.

The PM called for unity of purpose among Zimbabweans and condemned unnecessary tension.

"This country needs unity of purpose than at any other time . . . these challenges go beyond personal losses."

It was business as usual for the PM yesterday as he got briefings from various ministers.

Labels: LAND REFORM, MORGAN TSVANGIRAI, NATIONAL UNITY GOVERNMENT

posted by MrK @ 5:53 PM