Press Release: 11 March 2002
My Fellow Zimbabweans:
I thank you for your courage as you continue to vote in your millions. We see your determination. We hear your support. We share your impatience. The power is in your hands. What the people of Zimbabwe now deserve is a celebration.
But there are those who say that dark clouds threaten the horizon of our country.
Together we have travelled a very difficult road to achieve democratic change. Your resilience to reclaim your rights, as expressed by the overwhelming turnout, has shaken the corridors of power. Rare in the history of mankind have a people faced such brutality while retaining such gracious exuberance.
But the forces of darkness may yet try to block your path to victory.
As I address you, it is sad that this regime still seems intent on defying your will. Whatever may happen, I as your loyal servant am with you all the way. They may want to arrest me and at worst kill me, but they will never destroy the spirit of the people to reclaim their power. We have said that this election is about the choice between hope and despair. We may have moments of fear but we must never let despair overwhelm us.
The tide of change is irreversible but we must be prepared to pay a high price for our freedom. President Mugabe and his colleagues are afraid of the people and we have heard they may do anything to kill the messenger. If they do, you must stay strong and carry on the work we began together. Among you walk heroes -- heroes who waited hours and hours to vote, heroes who refused to be turned away. These are the heroes of the new Zimbabwe whose voices must be heard around the world.
Now is the time we have been waiting for and we are ready. But let us first wait peacefully for your votes to be cast and counted. Restrain yourselves so you do not allow their sinister plans to succeed. As you wait for the results, do not succumb to their provocative traps. I know they are trying very hard to provoke you. Yes, we share your fear that the result will be rigged, but let us complete the process we began together in our campaign for a better life for all Zimbabweans.
In closing, let us pray that President Mugabe, his party, and the security forces shall uphold the Constitution while peacefully honouring and respecting the will of Zimbabwean people.
May the Lord bless you in your continued efforts for freedom.
Morgan Tsvangirai
11 March 2002
Harare
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