Delahousse reveals role in anti-Govt protests Mr Delahousse
Mr Delahousse

Mr Delahousse

Zvamaida Murwira Senior Reporter
French Ambassador to Zimbabwe Mr Laurent Delahousse has confirmed Government’s findings that there was a third force behind recent civil disturbances, after declaring that he does not regret supporting the call by shadowy organisations urging people to embark on illegal demonstrations and stayaways.

Mr Delahousse, whose tour of duty comes to an end soon, said he stood inspired by #ThisFlag leader Pastor Evan Mawarire’s call for stayaways and the singing and rowdy conduct shown by his supporters in court during his appearance at the Harare Magistrates’ Courts on Wednesday evening.

The diplomat said this on Thursday during the 60th French anniversary at his residence which was attended by several ambassadors accredited to Zimbabwe, Government officials, opposition party officials and members of civic society among others.

Last week, Home Affairs Minister Dr Ignatious Chombo said United States Ambassador Mr Harry Thomas and his French counterpart were behind civil disturbances that rocked Harare, Beitbridge and Bulawayo, according to intelligence gathered by Government.

“I make no excuse for believing in democracy and human rights as enshrined in the Constitution of Zimbabwe. The freedom to assemble and demonstrate within the framework of the law, and to use social media in a peaceful manner, the protection of the people by the State without unnecessary use of force, even the right to stay at home without having to face the full wrath of the law, those are some of the rights deriving from the liberation struggle of your elders,” said Mr Delahousse.

He used the words “I have no regret” several times.

“I am inspired, on the contrary, by the light that shone yesterday (Wednesday) evening (at Harare Magistrates’ Courts), on the other side of this beautiful city, in the hands and hearts of those who called in song and prayer, for a new, united and peaceful Zimbabwe. May their appeal be heeded before it is too late,” said Mr Delahousse.

He told his audience that he would be leaving Harare in a few weeks for another posting.

Foreign Affairs Deputy Minister Edgar Mbwembwe, who was representing Zimbabwean Government at the event, said Harare would soon respond to Mr Delahousse’s out- burst.

He described the speech as an abuse of a platform for National Day. “My speech was not full of insults like this,” said Deputy Minister Mbwembwe.

In his speech, Deputy Minister Mbwembwe commended France for accepting Zimbabwe’s debt management strategy at the 2015 International Monetary Fund/World Bank meeting in Lima, Peru, as well as Paris’ continued support for re-engagement with IMF.

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