Simon Bleyer Posted November 1, 2022 Share Posted November 1, 2022 Mr Speaker, I rise before the House today to provide a brief update on the unfolding situation in Zimbabwe. Before I begin, I am certain that I speak for all Members present that we extend our thoughts to those living through this perilous and uncertain time. Earlier today the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, primarily made up of the combined Zimbabwe armed forces, were engaged in clashes with other actors in the capital of Harare. Our intelligence suggests that they have issued an ultimatum to President Mugabe, ordering him to step down within the week. As far as we are aware the scuffles of this morning have subsided. We do not believe that there is an immediate threat to British citizens living in the country, but have evacuation plans ready and actionable should the situation develop further. Support remains available from the British embassy in Harare and additional resources are being allocated by the Foreign Office to ensure that we can provide all necessary help to British citizens on the ground. Nevertheless we are encouraging British citizens in Zimbabwe to stay inside at this time, and are recommending against travel to the country in all but the most exceptional circumstances. The Foreign Office is in contact with regional powers, particularly those in the Commonwealth, and are coordinating with South Africa on the ground. The House will be updated as this situation develops. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Brown Posted November 2, 2022 Share Posted November 2, 2022 Mr. Speaker, I thank the Foreign Secretary for his statement--I and these benches agree entirely with his remarks, especially on the importance of British citizens in Zimbabwe to remain indoors and discouraging travel for non-exceptional circumstances. I have every confidence that the fine men and women in the Foreign Office here and in Zimbabwe will provide support to British citizens, and I encourage all citizens there to closely follow the instructions and guidance from our Embassy there. I look forward to hearing further updates from the Foreign Secretary. I hope that we see a peaceful resolution to this matter that respects the will of the people of Zimbabwe. All people have a right to self-determination of their Governments and elected representatives--and it is imperative that the people of Zimbabwe are able to have a free and open say in the composition of their Government--now and in the future--and that any transition of power follow the principles of the rule of law. Arnold Brown Conservative MP for Solihull Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Laurence Foltyn Posted November 3, 2022 Share Posted November 3, 2022 Mr Speaker, I thank the Foreign Secretary for this statement and would like to say how reassuring it is that the government is quick to tackle this issue and that support is on hand for British nationals living within that country. I join the calls for our citizens to listen to the guidance from our Embassy as and if it changes. I am curious to hear what the government's strategy is for safeguarding and promoting human rights and democracy within Zimbabwe. Laurence Foltyn, Liberal MP for Colne Valley Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Simon Bleyer Posted November 8, 2022 Author Share Posted November 8, 2022 Mr Speaker, The government believes in the manifestation of human rights and democracy throughout the world, particularly in Commonwealth – and in this case ex-Commonwealth - nations. We are working with regional organisations, including the African Union, to support democratic institutions throughout the continent. At this time we are awaiting further information about the situation in the country, but are encouraging swift elections and an immediate handover of power to the people of Zimbabwe. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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