Opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has issued a scathing statement accusing South Africa’s ruling African National Congress secretary general Fikile Mbalula of undermining Zimbabwe’s stability and democracy.
CCC national spokesperson, Promise Mkwananzi, expressed grave concerns over what he described as Mbalula’s “bizarre biases” and interference in the country’s politics.
“We note with grave concern Mr. Mbalula’s bizarre biases and proactive involvement in the ZANU PF political process. We urge Mr. Mbalula to put back his diplomatic jacket and abstain from doing the bidding for ZANU PF in trying to reverse or undermine the SADC damning report on Zimbabwe’s sham election,” said Mkwananzi
He argues that the ANC secretary general’s conduct violates democratic principles, pan-Africanism and Ubuntu values.
“South Africa and indeed the rest of the region stand to benefit more from a stable Zimbabwe, not least the relief South African economy will derive from a sound political and economic atmosphere in Zimbabwe,” Mkwananzi stated.
He also highlighted the potential for the return of Zimbabweans who sought economic refuge in South Africa, once the region assists Zimbabwe in stabilizing.
“We still believe that South Africa must play a key role in resolving the Zimbabwean stalemate, and Mr. Mbalula’s conduct undermines this imperative. South Africa and indeed the rest of the region stand to benefit more from a stable Zimbabwe, not least the relief South African economy will derive from a sound political and economic atmosphere in Zimbabwe.
“This would incentivize the return of the majority of our people who have sought economic sanctuary in South Africa but who are raring to return to Zimbabwe as soon as the region has completed the process of assisting Zimbabwe. This crucial process requires sober and objective engagements between South Africa and Zimbabwean political leaders, namely President Nelson Chamisa and Mr. Mnangagwa. It is our considered view that Zimbabwe needs to conduct a fresh, free, and fair election underwritten by SADC and AU as the only route towards political stabilization and legitimacy,” he said
Mkwananzi hinted that CCC will soon be writing formally to the ANC to remonstrate on this issue.
CCC’s remarks comes in the wake of Mbalula’s statements after he declared that there will not be fresh elections, as demanded by the main opposition Citizens Coalition for Change.
