Martin condemns Zimbabwe 'tragedy'

Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin today condemned the "continuing tragedy" in Zimbabwe, saying that the reinauguration of Robert Mugabe as president on Sunday was "an insult to democracy".

Speaking in Seanad Éireann this afternoon, Mr Martin said the principle of free and fair elections is the fundamental cornerstone of democracy.

"The obscene charade on Friday last, marked by reports of terrified voters being herded to polling stations, was deeply distressing for all those endeavouring to promote peaceful change in Zimbabwe and concerned with the welfare of the Zimbabwean people," said Mr Martin.

"The reality is that Robert Mugabe has abused the current electoral process from the start, beginning with his decision to ignore the views of the MDC and proceed with presidential elections in advance of much-needed constitutional and political reforms."

He continued: "This abuse is all the more tragic when we reflect on the courage and the hope in the future shown by the Zimbabwean people in exercising their democratic right to vote on 29th March last."

Mr Martin added: "I want to make clear here today the Government’s unequivocal position that the results of last Friday’s vote cannot be regarded as legitimate or in any way constituting the democratic and free expression of the Zimbabwean people’s will."

Mr Martin said Ireland has been extremely active in working with both regional organisations and the countries of the southern African region to address the current situation.

Prior to the withdrawal of Morgan Tsvangirai from the run-off election, Irish Aid had provided financial support to the UN to support deployment of Southern African Development Community (SADC) election observers in Zimbabwe.

In addition, the Irish Ambassador to South Africa and officers from the Embassy in Pretoria have made regular visits to Zimbabwe to assess the situation in the country.

Overall, Irish Aid support to the Zimbabwean people has totalled over €25 million since 2006.

Minister Martin said that it is Zimbabwe’s African neighbours, and above all South Africa, which have the greatest potential influence in helping to bring about an end to the current situation.

"I welcome yesterday’s fresh call by South Africa for talks between the regime and the MDC aimed at achieving a transitional government. The African Union should add its weight to this call – and I welcome reports that it may - and it should, with SADC and possibly the UN, work actively to put such a process in place," he said.