Recalled ambassadors return

The last batch of the 20 re-called diplomats is expected in the country on April 1, Foreign Affairs Secretary Ambassador Joey Bimha has said.

Ambassador Bimha told The Herald on Monday that the first batch of eight ambassadors was already in the country.

Those who have arrived include former Zimbabwe's ambassadors to the United States, Belgium, South Africa, Mozambique, Italy, Egypt, Nigeria and Germany.

"They are coming in batches and the last batch is expected on the 1st of April," said Ambassador Bimha.

"We give them different dates and no one is overstaying."

Ambassadors serve four-year terms that can be renewed depending on foreign policy considerations.

During the time of the inclusive Government, MDC-T provided four ambassadors to President Mugabe for diplomatic postings, while the MDC seconded Mrs Trudy Stevenson who was posted to Senegal.

Zimbabwe's ambassador to Australia, who was seconded by the MDC-T during the inclusive Government, Ms Jacqueline Zwambila, sought asylum in that country after she was re-called.

Ms Zwambila's antics have been condemned by Zimbabweans with her party also distancing itself from her actions.

Zimbabwe's embassy in Canberra also dismissed Ms Zwambila's actions, saying it was a ploy by the former ambassador to remain in that country after losing her diplomatic priviledges.