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06 March 2001
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6 March 2001
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Mary Robinson said today that she has written again to President Robert Mugabe drawing his attention to international concern over respect for the right to life, security of the person, freedom of expression and freedom of opinion and association in Zimbabwe. The High Commissioner appealed to President Mugabe to intervene personally to address these concerns with a view to assuring the full exercise of human rights in Zimbabwe.
In a letter delivered to President Mugabe last week, Mrs. Robinson said numerous persistent representations had been made to her Office about human rights in the country. The High Commissioner said, "You, as one who fought for your country's freedom ... would understand the importance of a free media, including the local independent press, and the freedom of journalists to inform the public".
She also referred to deep concerns relating to independence of the judiciary. She made a particular appeal to the President to "use your best endeavours for the well-being of the Chief Justice and other judges and magistrates", she said.
"I am fully conscious of the legacy of history that weighs upon nations such as Zimbabwe, and of the need for change and reform", Mrs. Robinson said. "But it is imperative to pursue these objectives within the framework of the law and of respect for human rights".
The High Commissioner has previously written to President Mugabe about the situation of human rights in Zimbabwe. She remains deeply concerned about the deterioration in the situation and is following it closely with a view to assessing future avenues of action.
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United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Mary Robinson said today that she has written again to President Robert Mugabe drawing his attention to international concern over respect for the right to life, security of the person, freedom of expression and freedom of opinion and association in Zimbabwe. The High Commissioner appealed to President Mugabe to intervene personally to address these concerns with a view to assuring the full exercise of human rights in Zimbabwe.
In a letter delivered to President Mugabe last week, Mrs. Robinson said numerous persistent representations had been made to her Office about human rights in the country. The High Commissioner said, "You, as one who fought for your country's freedom ... would understand the importance of a free media, including the local independent press, and the freedom of journalists to inform the public".
She also referred to deep concerns relating to independence of the judiciary. She made a particular appeal to the President to "use your best endeavours for the well-being of the Chief Justice and other judges and magistrates", she said.
"I am fully conscious of the legacy of history that weighs upon nations such as Zimbabwe, and of the need for change and reform", Mrs. Robinson said. "But it is imperative to pursue these objectives within the framework of the law and of respect for human rights".
The High Commissioner has previously written to President Mugabe about the situation of human rights in Zimbabwe. She remains deeply concerned about the deterioration in the situation and is following it closely with a view to assessing future avenues of action.
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