EU suspends sanctions against most Zimbabwe officials

By EU Reporter correspondent

The European Union has suspended sanctions against 81 officials and eight firms in Zimbabwe.

The decision followed a "peaceful, successful and credible" referendum on a new constitution earlier this month, the EU said in a statement.

However, sanctions will remain in force against 10 people - including Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe - and two firms, EU sources say.

The EU imposed sanctions, including a travel ban, in 2002.

It said it was in response to human rights abuses and political violence under Mr Mugabe's rule.

Allies of Mr Mugabe have long argued that the sanctions should be unconditionally removed and that they have had a negative impact on Zimbabwe's economy.

Mr Mugabe, 89, and his rival, Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai, 61, have been sharing power since disputed elections marred by violence in 2008.

Zimbabweans overwhelmingly approved the new constitution - which expands civil liberties and has been endorsed by both Mr Mugabe and Mr Tsvangirai - in the 16 March referendum.

Fresh elections are expected to be held some time this year.

The 27-member European Union said it had agreed to "immediately suspend" restrictive measures against 81 individuals and eight entities.

Anna van Densky