Change in leadership was long overdue, but we are worried about military's actions says US Senate Foreign Relations Committee

Members of the United States Senate Foreign Relations Committee’s Africa subcommittee, Senators Chris Coons(D-DE), Jeff Flake (R-AZ), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Johnny Isakson (R-GA) have released a report in which they urge the leaders of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces to ensure a transparent return to civilian rule.

The Report Reads:

For nearly four decades, Zimbabweans have suffered under the authoritarian rule of President Robert Mugabe, a dictator who has repressed his people and presided over the economic deterioration of his country. While a change in leadership is long overdue, we are concerned about the military’s actions. We urge the leaders of the Zimbabwe Defense Forces to ensure the protection of all citizens and a transparent return to civilian control.

As the country grapples with a new political reality, Zimbabwe’s leaders must adhere to democratic processes and establish a mechanism for the peaceful transfer of power that is consistent with Zimbabwe’s Constitution and the will of its people. Finally, we urge the Southern African Development Community and the African Union to mediate a democratic process that reinforces the rule of law, promotes economic reforms, and respects the human rights of all Zimbabweans.

More: Christopher Coons