Citizens clock 2 255 days outside US Embassy demanding end to sanctions

Blessings Chidakwa

Herald Reporter

The Broad Alliance Against Sanctions (BAAS) marked 2 255 consecutive days camped outside the United States Embassy in Harare on Wednesday, renewing calls for the immediate removal of sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe.

The movement, which began its round-the-clock protest on 29 March 2019, issued a media statement reiterating its position that the sanctions, particularly those linked to the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act (ZIDERA), have inflicted severe economic hardship on ordinary Zimbabweans and are violating the country’s sovereignty.

“We demand that the sanctions be removed. Allow our economy to perform freely without any hindrance,” said Calvern Chitsunge, BAAS chairperson and co-founder.

The group welcomed United Kingdom’s recent decision to lift its remaining sanctions on Zimbabwe, describing the move as a “great relief” for citizens.

They also praised President Mnangagwa’s “engagement and re-engagement” efforts and commended national infrastructure developments.

In the statement, BAAS also acknowledged philanthropic work by prominent Zimbabweans, including First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, businessman Wicknell Chivayo, and Dr Paul Tungwarara, calling their contributions “sanctions-busting” and vital to uplifting local communities.

“It is high time that you consider respecting our sovereignty as a nation and free us from the gross human rights violations you subject us to through illegal sanctions.”