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Archbishop begins day of prayer and fasting for Zimbabwe

27/04/2008

The Archbishop of York John Sentamu has begun a day of fasting and prayer at York Minister for the people of Zimbabwe

Mr Sentamu has previously called on the public to join him in the candlelight vigil in support of the citizens of the southern African country. In a joint statement previously released with the Archbishop of Canterbury he called for a "civil society movement" in order to give voice to the frustrations of the people.

Dr Sentamu said: "I want as many people as possible to join me at the Minster to pray for the situation in Zimbabwe and light a candle as a public demonstration of support for the people there.

"As a Christian community we must all stand together with our brothers and sisters living under the tyranny of Mugabe and pray that they will find deliverance," he added.

The southern African country currently has an inflation rate of over 150,000 per cent and an unemployment rate that has crossed 80 per cent, according to official figures.

On March 29th, the people of Zimbabwe chose representatives in 230 constituencies at the local, parliamentary and senate level and also picked their choice for the southern African country's president. Full results are yet to be announced and a recount into the results of 23 constituencies is currently underway.