The TUC has written a letter to the South African Prime Minister reminding him of the atrocities still being committed in Zimbabwe.

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has sent a letter to South African President Jacob Zuma urging him to dismiss any thoughts over relaxing EU sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe, as the African leader continues his state visit to the UK.

President Zuma argues that easing Zimbabwe’s sanctions could help the country resolve outstanding political differences. The sanctions include an asset freeze imposed by the EU, together with a travel ban on some of Robert Mugabe’s allies; and a trade ban against 250 Zimbabwean individuals and 17 companies, imposed by the US.

However, the TUC says that two recent reports have highlighted why the relaxation of EU sanctions would be a travesty to those living in Zimbabwe.

The first is from the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) which details a number of recent attacks on unions in the country; and the second is a report from GAPWUZ – the farm workers’ union – documenting a sustained seizure of farms which has left thousands of black farm workers beaten, homeless and unemployed.

Brendan Barber, TUC General Secretary, wrote: “Despite the formation of the Government of National Unity, human rights violations have not stopped. Relaxing sanctions would be seen as a relaxation of support for human rights in Zimbabwe.

“ZANU-PF are looting the remaining natural resources of Zimbabwe – e.g. farms and mines – while millions of Zimbabweans go hungry.”

UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown has talked of his displeasure at Zuma’s suggestion and following talks with the President this week, said that until concerns about human rights violations and media restrictions are lifted, then sanctions should stay in place.

Barber concludes his letter, which was handed to the South African High Commission yesterday (3 March) by appealing to the South African leader to maintain pressure on the ZANU-PF leadership.