    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book II)]
    [November 22, 2008]
    [Pages 1391-1392]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Situation in Zimbabwe
    November 22, 2008

        Nearly 8 months have passed since the Zimbabwean people voted for a
    new President, yet they still are governed by an illegitimate regime
    that continues to suppress democratic voices and basic human rights.

    [[Page 1392]]

    In addition to its disastrous economic policies which have forced half
    the population to rely on food assistance, the Mugabe regime is now assaulting doctors and nurses, denying
    citizens access to basic medical services, and stealing donor funds
    intended for HIV/AIDS patients.
        In October alone, independent organizations documented some 1,300
    incidents of politically motivated violence and harassment by the
    regime. We call for an end to the Mugabe
    regime's brutal repression of basic freedoms and for the formation of a
    legitimate government that represents the will of the people as
    expressed in the March 2008 elections.
        In spite of the regime's aggressive actions against its own people,
    the United States will continue to honor its commitment to provide
    emergency humanitarian assistance, already totaling $186 million in
    2008, and stands ready to provide other forms of assistance pending the
    formation of a legitimate government that represents the will of the
    Zimbabwean people.

    Note: The statement referred to President Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe.