Zimbabwe is suspended from the commonwealth

Zimbabwe was suspended from the Commonwealth of Nations after the country’s 2001 elections were found to be flawed by electoral observers. The elections were marred by politically motivated violence. The announcement was made by a troika of Commonwealth leaders that included then President of South Africa Thabo Mbeki. The suspension meant that the country would be barred from Commonwealth meetings for a period of 12 months, with the opportunity for review at the end of 12 months when a decision would be taken based on the progress made by the country.