[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 49 (Monday, December 15, 2008)]
[Page 1508]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

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Statement on the Situation in Zimbabwe

December 9, 2008

    As my administration has made clear, it is time for Robert Mugabe to 
go. Across the continent, African voices are bravely speaking out to say 
now is the time for him to step down. These leaders share the desire of 
ordinary Zimbabweans for a return to peace, democracy, and prosperity. 
We urge others from the region to step up and join the growing chorus of 
voices calling for an end to Mugabe's tyranny.
    The United States will continue to work with our partners around the 
world to halt the violence and stem the humanitarian disaster that the 
Mugabe regime is inflicting on its people. We stand ready to help 
rebuild Zimbabwe once a legitimate government has been formed that 
reflects the results of the March elections.