Media release

15 April 2008

Zimbabwe Elections

I am very concerned that the brutal Mugabe regime now appears to be set on a course of clinging to power at all costs, irrespective of the will of the Zimbabwean people.

Mr Mugabe and ZANU-PF appear to be determined to steal both the Parliamentary and the Presidential elections, through a recount by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission.

It would be a travesty to see the democratic will of the Zimbabwean people reversed or defied under the guise of a recount.  This would be tantamount to a tally room coup.

I very much welcome the leaders of the South African Development Community, Zimbabwe’s closest neighbours, calling on Zimbabwe authorities to release the Presidential election result and to proceed in strict compliance with Zimbabwe’s electoral laws.

The results of the Presidential election should be released immediately.  There is simply no justification for the outcome to be withheld two weeks after the poll.  

As well there seems to be no justification for a recount of 23 constituencies, other than a determined bid to steal the election.

Australia will continue to work with the international community and Zimbabwe’s neighbours to see a Zimbabwean Government that reflects the will of ordinary Zimbabweans.

Media inquiries: Mr Smith's office 02 6277 7500 - Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555