Brussels, 01/04/2003 (Agence Europe) - On 28 March the Greek Presidency made the following declaration on behalf of the EU, "The EU strongly condemns the unprecedented violence and repression against the opposition after the protest actions of 18-19 March 2003. The EU is especially concerned by the recent events and condemns the wave of arbitrary arrests and even torture by security forces. At least 250 people had to be hospitalised, dozens are reported missing, at least one MED member has died. The EU calls on the Government of Zimbabwe to respect the constitutionally guaranteed right of the Zimbabwean people to protest peacefully. The stay away of 18-19 March was predominantly peaceful. While, in spite of MDC's calls for peaceful action, serious incidents took place at the margins of the protest action, under no circumstances can this justify this unprecedented violence against opposition supporters. We strongly condemn President Mugabe's recent appeals on 21 and 22 March to smash any democratic opposition. These appeals actually triggered this new wave of violence. The EU reiterates her call on the Government of Zimbabwe to respect human rights, to immediately cease its campaign of violent repression and to call to account those responsible for the sue of violence and torture. To this end calls on the Government of Zimbabwe to ensure that the results of the by-elections in the constituencies of Kuwandzana and Highfield reflect the freely expressed choice of the electorates there."