Alcee Hastings: “It is simple but it strongly condemns the ongoing spiral of political violence in Zimbabwe. Mr. Speaker, for those of us…”

“It is simple but it strongly condemns the ongoing spiral of political violence in Zimbabwe. Mr. Speaker, for those of us who cherish life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness and believe that government should be for the people and by the people, the current situation in Zimbabwe is not only atrocious, but quite painful. As we witness the escalation of violence in that tiny nation, it appears that due process, free speech, and the right of assembly are ignored. And if quick and robust attention is not brought to these matters, I fear this nation could slip into civil unrest and economic devastation. First, I am gravely concerned about Zimbabwe's economic downturn and that government's inability to control the inflation, unemployment, and violence. The economy has suffered and continues to suffer and Zimbabweans are paying a terrible price. Agriculture production is down and inflation is over 70 percent. President Mugabe must immediately demonstrate a willingness to address its economic problems strategically and equitably.”