Teachers and trade unionists were targeted with politically motivated violence in an attempt to influence the outcome of the hotly-contested presidential election. Although President Robert Mugabe claimed victory in the elections, widespread manipulation and intimidation have led many international leaders and organizations to condemn the results.

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

As one of the 1.4 million members of the American Federation of Teachers, I am writing to condemn the illegitimate presidential election on June 27 and to pledge my solidarity with Zimbabwean teachers and trade union activists, as well as all citizens of Zimbabwe who continue to struggle for democracy and free and fair elections. Despite the risk of retribution from government forces, many Zimbabweans refused to participate in the elections after opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai withdrew from the election rather than subject his supporters to further government attacks. President Robert Mugabe has been discredited in the eyes of the world by his own people, and it is time for him to stop clinging to power through intimidation and violence.

I am especially alarmed that teachers have been targeted for their role as poll workers in the first round of elections on March 29. The Progressive Teachers' Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) has been accused of orchestrating Mr. Tsvangirai's victory, and it had to close its office in Gokwe on June 9 after a violent raid. Both PTUZ and the Zimbabwe Teachers' Association have reported daily attacks against teachers and union activists. Education has ground to a halt in rural areas, and children are being traumatized by watching acts of violence against their teachers.

This deplorable situation must not be allowed to continue. I join with teachers around the world in supporting Mr. Tsvangirai, the rightful president of Zimbabwe, and refusing to accept the results of this sham election. The government of Zimbabwe must stop the intimidation of teachers, cease politically motivated violence, end restrictions on the right of assembly and release the political leaders who have been detained. Only then can Zimbabweans negotiate a meaningful restoration of social justice and set to the task of developing a democratic and economically viable nation.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
July 02, 2008