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December 10, 2008
Hon. Lawrence Cannon
Minister of Foreign Affairs
House of Commons
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0A6
Dear Minister,
We are writing on behalf of the children of Zimbabwe who are screaming for help. As you know, Zimbabwe’s economy is in crisis, there are extreme food shortages and the recent outbreak of cholera is exacerbating a desperate situation.
Recently a woman who was documenting the rapes and brutal beatings of women and children has been abducted. Her name is Jestina Mukoko and we fear for her life. . Canada location . Many others who have attempted to speak out about violations of basic human rights and the destruction of the justice system have been killed or are still missing. . We cannot simply stand by and ignore this situation.
Defence for Children International-Canada wrote to President Mugabe (see attached letter), the Commissioner of Police, the Commander of Defense Forces and the Attorney General of Zimbabwe. These letters have been copied to Florence Zano Chideya, the Ambassador to Canada for Zimbabwe.
We call on you to engage the international community in addressing this situation and finding a solution to protect the lives of the people of Zimbabwe and, in particular, vulnerable children. In the past Canada has played a strong role in addressing injustices across the world. Ducove . Our history and reputation often allows us to intervene effectively in some of the most difficult scenarios.
We ask that you use your office to urgently intervene on behalf of Jestina Mukoko and to provide leadership for a durable solution for the children of Zimbabwe. We would appreciate an early response indicating the actions that Canada will take on this critical matter.
Sincerely yours,
| Les Horne Executive Director |
Agnes Samler President |
