Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
THE Broad Alliance Against Sanctions has said indications that the United States may move towards repealing the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act mark a significant step towards easing the economic pressures faced by ordinary Zimbabweans.
Broad Alliance Against Sanctions (BAAS) co-founder and chairperson Cde Calvern Chitsunge, was, however, quick to call for a total and unconditional removal of the illegal and ruinous embargo, that has inflicted pain on the people and the economy since 2001.
Cde Chitsunge said the sanctions have caused long-term socio-economic strain and should be removed urgently.
“We welcome the development as an organisation and on behalf of all ordinary citizens of our motherland Zimbabwe.
“These sanctions are illegal and violate the rights of Zimbabweans. Repealing them will open trading lines and boost our economic growth.”
Cde Chitsunge attributed the apparent shift in Washington’s position to diplomatic reforms under President Mnangagwa’s administration.
“Such moves by the American government reflect confidence in the reforms the Second Republic has initiated,” he said.
The Government-led empowerment programmes, added Cde Chitsunge, have helped citizens withstand the impact of sanctions.
He also acknowledged local business figures for contributing to projects aimed at mitigating economic pressures.
“We also acknowledge empowerment programmes being spearheaded by His Excellency, and the efforts of like-minded Zimbabweans such as Mr Wicknell Chivayo, Dr Tempter Tungwarara and Dr Kudakwashe Tagwirei, who have started sanctions-busting projects,” he said.
With the US Congress expected to continue debating modification of ZIDERA, Cde Chitsunge urged American lawmakers to prioritise Zimbabwe’s interests “ahead of anything else and remove these sanctions unconditionally”.
Tying the lifting of sanctions to Zimbabwe’s compensation of white former commercial farmers is not in the best interests of the people, he added.
Zimbabwe has already paid over US$20 million to the white former commercial farmers.
BAAS had maintained its anti-sanctions vigil outside the US Embassy in Westgate, Harare, for 2 439 days now.
Cde Chitsunge said they will continue to campaign against the embargo until it is removed.
