Zambian President, Levy Mwanawasa, has joined calls to several African countries not to allow a shipment of weapons dock at its ports. The Chinese shipment of arms aboard the An Yue Jiang failed to unload its cargo in South Africa last week and was forced to return to sea. Its cargo of 3 million rounds of ammunition, AK47 rifles, RPGs and mortar rounds was set to be delivered to Zimbabwe, but the volatile situation in the country has increased concerns over how the arms might be used. Dock workers in South Africa had expressed their fear that the weapons may have been used against the civilian population. Results from the national election still have not been released, and while opposition parties insist Zanu-PF and its leader lost, Robert Mugabe is still clinging onto power. Retribution against those that voted for the opposition appears to be increasing. On Monday, Channel Four News showed pictures of men beaten with bicycle chains, sticks and axes. While the Zimbabwe government denies claims of intimidation, the opposition says the weapons could be used to "wage war" on its supporters ahead of a possible run-off in the presidential vote. The International Transport Workers Federation says it has asked its members across Africa not to help unload the An Yue Jiang which was later turned away from Mozambique. The Chinese vessel was said to be bound for Angola but the US is reported to be pressuring port authorities there and in Namibia not to allow them to dock. “I hope this will be the case with all the countries because we don't want a situation which will escalate the [tension] in Zimbabwe more than what it is," said Mr Mwanawasa.
Zambia, formerly known as northern Rhodesia, is situated to the north of Zimbabwe and like South Africa sees many refugees crossing its borders. Although Zambia’s tourist industry has increased as Zimbabwe’s economy and political situation has become unstable, there is a strong desire to see the situation improve. Zambian President Levy Mwanawasa who is also chairman of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) regional grouping, was diplomatic with regards to the origin of the shipment. "The Chinese can play a very useful role in Zimbabwe without (offering) firearms," Mwanawasa said. Zambia has to play it carefully with regards its criticism of China. The country has strong ties with China and there is heavy investment in the country.
Namibia is a strong ally with Zimbabwe and may ignore pressure from neighbouring countries. However the Namibian authorities have not released any statement as to whether they would allow the ship to dock. The Chinese Foreign Ministry has also been noticeable by its silence, but the ship's master, who identified himself as Captain Sunaijun, said by radio phone: "I am awaiting orders from my owner."
[BBC / Al Jazeera / CNN / SMH].
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