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Tshabangu’s conduct riles ZESN

By Agencies

THE Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) has questioned the motive behind a move by the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) to support President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s bid for a third term.

A key stakeholder in the country’s electoral processes, ZESN said it believed deferring Zimbabwe’s elections from 2028 to 2030 would have significant impacts on its democratisation process, governance and integrity.

The statement, released on Monday, follows comic declarations by self-styled CCC Secretary General Sengezo Tshabangu that they were prepared to support the deferment of elections for Mnangagwa.

Tshabangu spoke after being feted at Mnangagwa’s Precabe Farm, where politician Jealousy Mawarire claimed opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) were each given a US$5,000 purse.

“If our presence here improves your stay in power and makes the people of Zimbabwe happy, then let it be,” said Tshabangu who was accompanied by about 32 of his ‘sellout’ CCC faction.

ZESN called for stakeholders to respect the Zimbabwean constitution and highlighted Mnangagwa’s move dispelling any intentions for an illegal third term.

Some sections of Zanu PF are seeking to amend the constitution to allow Mnangagwa a term they say will end in 2030.

“As the debate surrounding the postponement intensifies among political analysts, citizens, and election observers, concerning developments are emerging, some segments of the opposition have begun to align with the ruling party in advocating for an extension, raising questions about the motivations behind such a shift and its impact on democratic processes.

“ZESN commends President Emmerson Mnangagwa for his commitment to upholding the Constitution. In 2024, he explicitly distanced himself from the push for the postponement of elections, stating that he had ‘no interest in extending his term beyond 2028,’ demonstrating a commitment to democratic norms.

“The proposal to postpone the 2028 elections, primarily supported by certain politicians, raises concerns about setting a dangerous precedent in a region that has generally maintained relative peace. It will also violate SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections, of which Zimbabwe is a signatory.

“ZESN calls for political will on meaningful and genuine electoral reforms and implementing Election Observer Missions’ (EOMs) recommendations,” said ZESN.

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