The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
End of rule offers path free of oppression – May
Robert Mugabe’s resignation gives Zimbabwe the opportunity to “forge a new path free of the oppression that characterised his rule”, Prime Minister Theresa May said.
Mrs May said: “In recent days we have seen the desire of the Zimbabwean people for free and fair elections and the opportunity to rebuild the country’s economy under a legitimate government.
“As Zimbabwe’s oldest friend, we will do all we can to support this, working with our international and regional partners to help the country achieve the brighter deserves.”
Salil Shetty, secretary general of Amnesty International, said: “After more than three decades of violent repression, the way forward for the country is to renounce the abuses of the past and transition into a new era where the rule of law is respected and those who are responsible for injustices are held to account.
“During 37 years of President Mugabe’s leadership, tens of thousands of people were tortured, forcibly disappeared or killed. “President Mugabe condoned human rights violations, defended criminal future it so actions of his officials and allowed a culture of impunity for grotesque crimes to thrive.”
Boris Johnson said the end of Mr Mugabe’s reign appeared to be a “moment of hope” for the people of Zimbabwe, and should not be allowed to mark “the transition from one despotic rule to another”.
The foreign secretary said it was now a matter for Zimbabweans to decide what happens to Mr Mugabe and his wife Grace.
With Mr Mnangagwa, a former ally of Mr Mugabe nicknamed the Crocodile, the likely next leader, Mr Johnson said: “I think it’s very important at the moment that we don’t focus too much on the personalities. Let’s concentrate on the potential, the hope for Zimbabwe – an incredible country, a beautiful country blessed with extraordinary physical and human potential. What we need to see now is free, fair democratic elections and, above all, not a transition from one despotic rule to another.” On the fate of Mr Mugabe and his wife, he said: “That is a decision for the people of Zimbabwe.”