The new US envoy to Harare Harry K. Thomas (Jr) says he will challenge President Robert Mugabe on human rights violations, if any happens during his term of office.
Since 2000 when she slapped Mugabe with sanction on allegations of gross human rights violations, America has been encouraging Harare to respect human rights.
“The Government of the United States and the Government of Zimbabwe share the desire for a better future for the people of this great nation and whenever we may differ on the best means of achieving these goals, I will seek to engage in a dialogue that is respectful and that seeks to uphold the universal values and rights that Zimbabweans fought so hard to gain 36 years ago,” Thomas told President Mugabe when he met him this week.
US said respect to rule of law and human rights remained its benchmark towards the re-engagement process.
“We stand by the commitments that we made to the people of Zimbabwe at independence in 1980; to work together to promote democratic institutions, equitable economic growth, public health, and food security,” he said.
“The United States shares the desires of the people of Zimbabwe, who want to see a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous Zimbabwe that provides for its people and contributes to regional stability”.
“To realize these goals, we strongly believe that it is important to engage with government and non-governmental entities alike to promote our shared values and to work together in areas of common concern. We view this ongoing dialogue as part of building the bilateral relationship”.