Dr Tedros Adhanom, the Director General of World Health Organisation, WHO on Sunday bowed to pressure over his recent my appointment of President Robert Mugabe as the organization’s Goodwill Ambassador for Non Communicable Diseases, NCDCs in Africa.
The appointment of Mugabe who has been in power in Zimbabwe since the 80s was met with strident criticisms by many countries all over the world.
There have been calls on WHO to rescind the appointment over claims that the 0ver 90 years old, sit tight leader was not a good model to be projected.
Dr. Adhanom said the sack of Mugabe followed his reflections on the deluge of criticisms that have followed the appointment of Mugabe.
In a statement he signed on Sunday, the WHO DG said, “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.”
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