Rawlings Finds Fault With Zimbabwe Demolitions

Most African leaders have declined to criticize Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe for his administration's destruction of the homes of thousands of the country?s poorest citizens. But former Ghanaian President Jerry Rawlings has broken ranks with such African solidarity ? at least to the extent of saying that while an urban cleanup might have been necessary, officials in Harare should have made new arrangements to house the displaced before demolishing their homes and market stands.

Most African leaders have declined to criticize Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe for his administration's destruction of the homes of thousands of the country?s poorest citizens. But former Ghanaian President Jerry Rawlings has broken ranks with such African solidarity ? at least to the extent of saying that while an urban cleanup might have been necessary, officials in Harare should have made new arrangements to house the displaced before demolishing their homes and market stands. Reporter Blessing Zulu of VOA?s Studio 7 for Zimbabwe spoke with Mr. Rawlings during a visit by the ex-president to VOA's Washington studios.