Statement on the detention and release of Mr. Morgan Tsvangarai

Upon being informed by the MDC of the arrest of its leader, Mr. Morgan Tsvangarai, in Lupane, Zimbabwe yesterday, SADC Facilitator, President Thabo Mbeki, immediately contacted the government of the Republic of Zimbabwe to ascertain the circumstances of the arrest.

In line with SADC decisions, President Mbeki has urged the government to do everything possible to ensure that every party involved in the forthcoming Presidential run-off does so in conditions that are free and fair.

Further, President Mbeki urges all parties to activate joint monitoring mechanisms as part of creating an environment conducive to the holding of free and fair elections.

Lastly, President Mbeki appeals for calmness and proportionate use of language, the better to manage tensions that are generally associated with election campaigns in many parts of the world.

Statement issued by The Presidency Cape Town June 5 2008