Australia turns screws on Mugabe regime

MUGABE

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By Staff Reporter

AUSTRALIA has tightened sanctions against Zimbabwe after thousands of people were forced to flee their homes amid a Mugabe government operation to restore order.

As of Tuesday, Zimbabwean police had demolished 21,194 "illegal structures" nationwide and 32,435 people had been arrested since Operation Murambatsvina (drive out trash) began on May 19.

Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said Australia condemned the Mugabe government's destruction of homes and livelihoods.

"These developments underline the need to maintain sanctions against the Mugabe regime," Mr Downer said in a statement.

"To reinforce Australia's own smart sanctions regime, the government has decided to discontinue the privilege extended to Zimbabwean passport holders, including diplomatic passport holders, to transit Australian airports on their way to a third country without holding an Australian visa."

Mr Downer said the Mugabe government's actions had created an internal refugee crisis at a time of food shortages caused by economic mismanagement and drought.

"Once again the Mugabe regime has demonstrated its contempt for basic human rights and the rule of law," he said.

"The regime should focus on the real issues of concern to its people instead of punishing those whom it considers oppose it.

"Australia urges the government of Zimbabwe to immediately halt the operation and provide food and shelter for those in need."
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