“African countries must increase their pressure on Zimbabwe”

Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg has today written to the chairpersons of the African Union and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), urging all countries in the region to increase their pressure on Zimbabwe to ensure that the 27 June elections are carried out according to democratic standards and that they are free of violence and intimidation.

“The crisis in Zimbabwe has become even more serious in recent days. Recently, opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai was detained while campaigning. Intimidation and restrictions against civilians and election observers demonstrate a lack of commitment to the democratic process that can not be tolerated. I therefore urge the leaders of the region to put additional pressure on the Zimbabwean authorities, to ensure that the elections on 27 June are free of violence and intimidation and open to the press”, Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg says.

Mr. Stoltenberg’s letters were sent to Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete - chairperson of the African Union, and Zambian President Levy Patrick Mwanawasa – chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

“That international organisations are refused to enter the country, will lead to a deterioration of the already critical humanitarian situation in Zimbabwe”, Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg says.

• The letters sent to the presidents of Tanzania and Zambia