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Statement by the President on Zimbabwe
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For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary November 22, 2008

Statement by the President on Zimbabwe

ÿÿWhite House News


Nearly eight months have passed since the Zimbabwean people voted for a new
president, yet they still are governed by an illegitimate regime that
continues to suppress democratic voices and basic human rights. In addition
to its disastrous economic policies which have forced half the population
to rely on food assistance, the Mugabe regime is now assaulting doctors and
nurses, denying citizens access to basic medical services, and stealing
donor funds intended for HIV/AIDS patients.

In October alone, independent organizations documented some 1,300 incidents
of politically-motivated violence and harassment by the regime. We call for
an end to the Mugabe regime's brutal repression of basic freedoms and for
the formation of a legitimate government that represents the will of the
people as expressed in the March 2008 elections.

In spite of the regime's aggressive actions against its own people, the
United States will continue to honor its commitment to provide emergency
humanitarian assistance, already totaling $186 million in 2008, and stands
ready to provide other forms of assistance pending the formation of a
legitimate government that represents the will of the Zimbabwean people.

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