The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has issued a stern rebuke to Zimbabwean authorities following a series of alarming incidents targeting US government officials and contractors.
In a statement on Saturday, USAID administrator Samantha Power criticised the alleged increase in cases of intimidation, harassment and forced deportation of USAID team members by Zimbabwean officials over the past two years.
“The United States is deeply concerned by Zimbabwean authorities’ recent attempts to verbally and physically intimidate several US government officials and contractors – subjecting some of them to overnight detention, transportation in unsafe conditions, prolonged interrogation, seizure of and intrusion into personal electronic equipment, and forced deportation,” Power said.
She said the latest “inappropriate and aggressive treatment” occurred while USAID officials were assessing the development and governance context in Zimbabwe to help inform the agency’s work to support civic participation, democratic institutions and human rights.
“This is a grave development that follows other serious incidents over the past two years in which US government officials and US citizens experienced harassment and improper treatment from the Zimbabwean authorities,” the USAID chief said.
She added: “These unjustifiable actions render hollow the Government of Zimbabwe’s claims that it is committed to the reforms necessary for democratic governance and reengagement with the international community.”
She said USAID would not be intimidated and would continue to support the people of Zimbabwe as they seek to build a more resilient, inclusive, and democratic society with accountable political leaders and government institutions, active citizen participation, and adherence to the rule of law.
“As seen through our recent targeted sanctions, (we) will not hesitate to take additional measures to hold accountable those who deny Zimbabweans fundamental freedoms and good governance.”
The US government this week imposed targeted economic sanctions against President Emmerson Mnangagwa and 10 other Zimbabweans accused of trampling on human rights of their compatriots and involvement in corrupt activities.
JN/APA