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The DA notes with grave concern the Economic Freedom Fighters' (EFF) statement, calling on the South African government to grant Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe asylum amid pressure mounting for him to step down.

The DA reiterates its position that President Mugabe is not welcome in South Africa. Not only does he have an abysmal human rights record, but granting him asylum will be against the law.

The DA believes that allowing Robert Mugabe into South Africa on political asylum, or “refugee status” would be in contravention of the Refugees Act (130 of 1998) – the empowering legislation.

South Africa cannot continue with its quiet diplomacy while the people of Zimbabwe suffer. This will not advance peace in Zimbabwe or provide better conditions for Zimbabweans as the EFF asserts.

The EFF has chosen to be on the wrong side of history instead of advocating and fighting for human rights.  Just like the ANC government that seemingly supports war criminals and dictators like Omar Al-Bashir, Edgar Lungu and others who have abandoned the virtues of values-based leadership.

If the EFF genuinely cared about the Zimbabwean people, they would be joining our call to not grant President Mugabe political asylum in South Africa. Many Zimbabweans have had to flee their country of birth as President Mugabe ruled Zimbabwe into the ground.

The DA believes that the only solution for Zimbabwe is free and fair elections to be held urgently. President Mugabe and his government will not self-correct. It is time for a new beginning for Zimbabwe.

Issued by DA