Misunderstanding in Zimbabwe resolved

A misunderstanding resting on baseless allegations against the Director and Administrator of the Zimbabwe programme of Mellemfolkeligt Samvirke (Danish Association for International Cooperation) has attracted media attention in Denmark.

"While the matter last Tuesday appeared to be serious, it never developed into an substantial issue. Already Tuesday it was evident that it was based on a misunderstanding, resting on serious but baseless allegations against management of the MS country office. The relevant authority in Zimbabwe was contacted and the matter handled in a proper and amicable manner", says MS Secretary General Lars Udsholt.

On Tuesday this week the two staff members in question at the MS office in Zimbabwe were called to the immigration authorities and asked to leave the country at short notice. 

"It is correct that we were concerned when the matter came up on Tuesday. However, this was prior to MS getting information about the background to the issue. The relevant authorities acted swiftly and averted a possible serious situation. MS much appreciates these efforts," says Lars Udsholt.

In relation to the above matter, MS is convinced that the Zimbabwean authorities had no intention to harm the organisation's programme in the country. In MS's view the case never involved concerns about MS work in Zimbabwe. MS therefore does not see the relationship with the authorities as strained or aggravated as the media report suggested.

The background to the baseless allegations made against the two MS staff members in Zimbabwe will be investigated by authorities.

"The MS programme in Zimbabwe was established in 1983 and is currently supporting some 25 local development organisations throughout the country", says Lars Udsholt.