Prime Minister Tsvangirai Meets UNICEF Boss
Mr. Tsvangirai says UNICEF has been a major partner of the unity government as it tries to address pressing issues in the country
WASHINGTON DC — The United Nations Children’s Fund Executive Director, Antony Lake, is visiting Zimbabwe this week where Thursday he met Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai at his Highlands home in Harare. The two discussed the forthcoming referendum and national elections with Mr. Lake emphasising the need for the polls, expected in July, to be free of violence, saying women and children are the first victims of political violence. Prime Minister Tsvangirai said he agrees on the need to ensure that women and children are protected at all times as Zimbabwe goes through two important national votes. Mr. Tsvangirai said UNICEF has been a major partner of the unity government as it tries to address pressing issues in the country. Mr. Lake arrived in Harare on Wednesday for meetings with government officials and others, giving him the opportunity to tour UNICEF projects around the country. The prime minister later addressed Warren Park residents, urging them to support the draft constitution when it is put before them in the referendum next week. The MDC leader said Zimbabweans no longer want the Lancaster House document forged before Zimbabwe’s independence. Speaking at Magamba Hall in Warren Park, the Mr. Tsvangirai said the draft charter guarantees people’s rights and free and fair polls. MDC-T’s spokesman, Douglas Mwonzora, said Mr. Tsvangirai on Wednesday night also addressed people in the Glen View suburb with the same message, urging a ‘Yes’ vote on March 16.