MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

WHO Director General rescinds Goodwill Ambassador appointment

“I have listened carefully to all who have expressed their concerns, and heard the different issues that they have raised”

World Health Organization, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has announced that after much listening and reflection, he has decided to rescind the appointment of Zimbabwe president Robert Mugabe as a WHO Goodwill Ambassador for NCDs in Africa.

 Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus made public the appointment in Montevideo, last Wednesday during his opening speech to a world meeting of Non Communicable Diseases, NCDs hosted by the Uruguayan government.

Following worldwide protests and condemnations of the decision involving Mugabe who is considered a dictator (37 years in office) and whose policies have actually dismantled the health system in Zimbabwe, WHO Director General made the following release:

“Over the last few days, I have reflected on my appointment of H.E. President Robert Mugabe as WHO Goodwill Ambassador for NCDs in Africa. As a result I have decided to rescind the appointment.

”I have listened carefully to all who have expressed their concerns, and heard the different issues that they have raised. I have also consulted with the Government of Zimbabwe and we have concluded that this decision is in the best interests of the World Health Organization.

“It is my aim to build a worldwide movement for global health. This movement must work for everyone and include everyone.

”For me, what is important is to build political leadership and create unity around bringing health to all, based on WHO’s core values.

“I remain firmly committed to working with all countries and their leaders to ensure that every one has access to the health care they need.

”We must build bridges that bring us together and help us move forward in our quest to achieve universal health coverage.

“I thank everyone who has voiced their concerns and shared their thoughts. I depend on constructive debate to help and inform the work I have been elected to do”.