The World Health Organization (WHO) has reacted to the international outrage over the appointment of Zimbabwean President, Robert Mugabe, as a Goodwill Ambassador, revoking the appointment less than one week after it was announced.
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesusm, who is the first African Director General of the Geneva-based WHO, announced the appointment of the Zimbabwean leader on October 18. The announcement was followed by an avalanche of criticism on WHO’s choice of Mugabe.
Mr Mugabe has been described as a serial violator of human rights and has been criticised for the degradation and deterioration of healthcare in Zimbabwe and his 30 year rule has been marred with reports of negligence of healthcare facilities within his Country while he frequents Singapore for treatment, disregard for the rule of law by directing his supporters to use violence against members of the rival political parties and while also being investigated for alleged violations of UN sanctions against trade with North Korea.
The WHO Director General said after due considerations and reflection, he has reached the decision to revoke the appointment of the African leader, Robert Mugabe.
“I have listened carefully to all who have expressed their concerns, and heard the different issues that they have raised,
“I have also consulted with the government of Zimbabwe and we have concluded that this decision is in the best interests of the World Health Organization,” The Director added.
The UK government, the Canadian Prime Minister, the Wellcome Trust, the NCD Alliance, UN Watch, the World Heart Federation, Action Against Smoking and Zimbabwean lawyers and social media users are among those said to have criticised Zimbabwe’s appointment.
