MDC-T's bid to involve the UK on Madzore's release hits a brick-wall

In a bid to arm twist the Zimbabwean police to release Solomon Madzore the MDC Youth Assembly chairperson who was arrested on on charges of murdering a police officer in Glen View in May last year, MDC-T has taken its campaign to the British Government. However the United Kingdom said it cannot interfere with Zimbabwe's legal process.

MDC-T wrote a letter to William Hague of the UK Foreign and Commonwealth office requesting that the former colonial masters intervene and facilitate the release of it youth chairperson.

"We would like to request that the British Government pursue diplomatic initiatives to help release of Mr Madzore and other political prisoners in Zimbabwe," said the MDC-T in a letter to Louise Freegard of the Zimbabwe Unit.

"In particular, we also ask you to draw this attention to Zimbabwe Embassy in London for release of all political prisoners in Zimbabwe. War veterans and Zanu PF youths to stop disrupting opponent's political rallies. When it comes to the rule of law, respect for the constitution and other laws, the police have to stop applying the law selectively and have stood by as Zanu PF youths engaged in looting and violence in Harare," added the MDC-T.

The MDC-T did not receive the most positive of all responses as the William Hague's office through Louise Freegard of the Zimbabwe Unit said the UK has no locus to intercede in another country's legal process.

"We are aware of the case of Mr Madzore but as I am sure you understand the UK has no locus to intercede in another country's legal process and given the complex historical relationship between the UK and Zimbabwe any loud public condemnation by the UK may have a counterproductive impact," said Freegard in response to MDC-T's request.

Hague's office said Zimbabwe is aware that the eyes of the International Community are watching them. British diplomatic attend many court cases and monitor human rights violations. It said, it remain concerned about repressive legislation and limited media freedom which affect all Zimbabweans.

Hague's office said it continue to believe that the inclusive Government and the Global Political Agreement is the best way give the people of Zimbabwe a chance to chose their leaders, achieve a peaceful transition, and return stability to the country.