Zanu PF’s Alleged Interference in Regional Elections Sparks Outrage

Job Sikhala warns against Zanu PF’s interference in Botswana’s elections, highlighting instances of alleged electoral manipulation in Mozambique and South Africa. He emphasizes the risks this poses to Zimbabweans abroad and regional peace, calling for accountability within SADC regarding Zanu PF’s actions.

Job Sikhala, the former legislator for Zengeza West and St. Mary’s, has expressed grave concerns regarding the Zimbabwe ruling party, Zanu PF, infiltrating the electoral process in neighboring Botswana. During a recent rally, former President Ian Khama accused Zanu PF of sending agents to manipulate the imminent elections scheduled for October 30, 2024. The current president, Mokgweetsi Masisi, is facing reelection amid allegations of foreign meddling. Sikhala has also claimed that Zanu PF, led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has engaged in questionable tactics in the recent Mozambican elections and has meddled in the political landscape of South Africa earlier this year. He cautioned that such political interference threatens to alienate Zimbabweans living in these regions, stating, “As Zimbabweans, we are being risked being hated everywhere in the region because of a stinking party that loves to interfere in the domestic affairs of other countries.” Sikhala further alleged that Zanu PF is a danger to the peace and stability within the Southern African Development Community (SADC), remarking on their active role in regional politics, including support for Edgar Lungu in Zambia, a former president ousted in favor of Hakainde Hichilema. The involvement of Zanu PF supporters in the recent Mozambican elections has raised concerns about the legitimacy of the electoral process and possibly undermined relations within the SADC.

The article discusses the troubling implications of the Zanu PF party’s actions beyond Zimbabwe’s borders, particularly its alleged interference in the electoral processes of neighboring countries such as Botswana and Mozambique. This interference raises significant concerns regarding the regional political stability and the image of Zimbabweans living abroad. Job Sikhala’s alarming observations highlight the growing sentiment against Zanu PF’s cross-border activities, which he argues could incite hostility against Zimbabweans in the SADC region. As Zanu PF continues to assert influence in regional affairs, the legitimacy of electoral processes, especially in countries with historical ties to Zimbabwe, faces increasing scrutiny.

In summary, Job Sikhala has spotlighted the risks posed by Zanu PF’s political interventions in regional elections, which threaten not only the integrity of the electoral processes but also the safety and identity of Zimbabweans abroad. With allegations of electoral manipulation surfacing in both Mozambique and Botswana, the need for regional leaders to address these challenges becomes imperative to ensure political stability and uphold the democratic process across the SADC.

Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com