ANC welcomes Tsvangirai inauguration as Prime Minister

11 January 2009

The African National Congress (ANC) warmly welcomes as a positive development, the inauguration of Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) leader Morgan Tsvangirai as Prime Minister, leading to a landmark power-sharing by Zimbabwe's leading political parties.

On this historic occasion, the ANC congratulates leaders of both ZANU-PF and MDC for putting the interest of the people of Zimbabwe and that country first. We are confident that leaders of the multiparty government will make use of this opportunity to work together to advance the needs of the Zimbabwean people.

We also commend SADC mediator Thabo Mbeki, President of the Republic, Kgalema Motlanthe and the facilitation team for their sterling work during the mediation process. Working together with Zimbabwean leaders, they have persisted in seeking a solution to the political impasse in that country.

Not only is the development important for Zimbabwe, but has far-reaching political and economic implications for Southern Africa and the entire African continent. It will make a certain contribution to building peace and prosperity.

The ANC calls on the international community to assist in the reconstruction and economic recovery of Zimbabwe.

Issued by:
Jessie Duarte
National Spokesperson
African National Congress

Enquiries:
Carl Niehaus 072 343 4007
Jessie Duarte 079 506 6756
Brian Sokutu 071 671 6919
Ishmael Mnisi 082 333 5550