Zimbabwe attacks UK 'colonialism'
Posted: Sunday, March 3, 2002

Zimbabwe has accused Prime Minister Tony Blair of disgraceful colonialism for trying to have the country suspended from the Commonwealth.

The response from Zimbabwean Information Minister Jonathan Moyo came after Mr Blair warned the Commonwealth's reputation could be damaged if it did not take tough action against President Robert Mugabe.

Mr Moyo told BBC News it would be voters and not international observers who would decide the polls.

Mr Moyo was fiercely critical of Mr Blair, who he said was "suffering from a colonial hangover" and making arrogant statements.

"He needs to be told that Zimbabwe will never be a colony again, never," said the minister.

"He can make as much noise as he wants and the more noise he makes, the more he exposes himself to the international community.

"Some of the statements that have been attributed to him yesterday and today are disgraceful and shameful."

On Saturday, Mr Blair warned that if observers concluded the election, which has been tainted by reports of violence and intimidation, was unfair then it would be "essential" for the Commonwealth to act.

Foreign Office Minister Baroness Amos said the UK could take action on its own against Zimbabwe.

AIN'T NO STOPPING EUROPEAN ARROGANCE 

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