Zimbabwe deserves better than 'discredited dictator': Bush

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UNITED States President George W. Bush said on Thursday before departing on his last trip to Africa as president that the United States look forward to the end of dictatorship in Zimbabwe.

"In Zimbabwe, a discredited dictator presides over food shortages, staggering inflation, and harsh repression. The decent and talented people of that country deserve much better," Bush said.

"America will continue to support freedom in Zimbabwe. And I urge neighbors in the region, including South Africa, to do the same. We look forward to the hour when this nightmare is over, and the people of Zimbabwe regain their freedom."

Bush added that "America also stands with all in Africa who live in the quiet pain of tyranny" and vowed to "confront tyranny."

Zimbabwe, ruled by President Robert Mugabe for 28 years, is scheduled to hold presidential polls next month with former finance minister Simba Makoni pledging to topple the 83-year-old leader after accusing him of causing fear, poverty, disease and despair.

The southern African country is beset by the world's highest rate of inflation and even basic foodstuffs such as cooking oil are in scarce supply. - AFP

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