08 July 2008
Methodist Church condemns UK Government's failure of Zimbabwean refugees
The Methodist Conference has condemned the UK government's
failure to care for Zimbabwean refugees and is urging the
Government to immediately stop all deportations to Zimbabwe and
grant indefinite 'right to remain' to Zimbabwean refugees.
The Conference expressed support for all international efforts to
bring about a peaceful, sustainable democratic future for
Zimbabwe.
Kevin Fray, World Church Secretary for Africa, says; 'We are deeply
concerned for the wellbeing of all people. With this in mind, it is
right that the Church expresses solidarity with all Zimbabweans at
this time.'
Local churches are being invited to contribute to the Fund for
World Mission to help the Zimbabwean churches respond to urgent
humanitarian needs in the country. The churches have requested
funding for a lorry for aid distribution and secure transport of
Methodist ministers to their new stations. An initial gift raised
by the Conference's Sunday offering will be sent to support this.
Resources will be made available to help Methodist churches in
Britain understand the ongoing situation and respond
appropriately.
The Conference has also directed that these concerns be brought to
the attention of the British Government, United Nations, the
Commonwealth, the Southern African Development Community and the
African Union.
In 2008 the British Methodist Church has sent solidarity grants
totalling more than £70,000 to support humanitarian work in
Zimbabwe.