The World Health Organization (WHO) is considering rescinding Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe’s appointment as a goodwill ambassador, after global criticism. Two weeks ago, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director general of WHO appointed Mugabe to serve in a role that was expected to help tackle non-communicable diseases such as asthma, strokes and heart attacks within Africa.
Since then, numerous stakeholders have spoken against the appointment, with some arguing that Mugabe is a despot and a bad example. Others point out that the health care system in Zimbabwe has collapsed which undermine Robert Mugabe’s suitability for the position.
“I’m listening. I hear your concerns. Rethinking the approach in light of WHO values. I will issue a statement as soon as possible,” Tedros, a former Ethiopian health minister, said in a tweet, at the height of the criticisms.
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
The first volley against Mugabe’s appointment was fired by the government of the United Kingdom. One of its spokespersons said the decision by WHO was as “surprising and disappointing”. The spokesperson said they had raised an objection with WHO especially because Mugabe faces sanctions from the United States and the European Union.
A similar concern was raised by the US foreign policy department, the state department, which stated that: “This appointment clearly contradicts the United Nations ideals of respect for human rights and human dignity.”
