WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today called for calm in Zimbabwe as news emerged of a crackdown on opposition supporters. Three protesters are reported to have been killed.
“The reports of the military opening fire killing three protesters is gravely disturbing. My condolences go out to the families of those slain. I urge all parties on the ground to refrain from violence. The government must call a halt to the excessive use of force by the military, and opposition leaders must likewise encourage supporters to remain peaceful. A credible outcome to these elections-- one that truly reflects the will of the people-- will have an enormous impact on Zimbabwe’s standing in the international community, and in U.S. - Zimbabwe relations. The eyes of the world are watching how all parties conduct themselves.”
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