A leading elections watchdog has heightened calls for dialogue to address the prevailing economic problems that have worsened the country’s political situation and breeding civil unrest.
In a press release today, the Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) said it was concerned over the recent violent protests that rocked the country that resulted in the death of an estimated 12 people.
“The Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) has noted with concern the recent violent protests characterised by looting, vandalism of property and infrastructure as well as the heavy handed response by the security forces resulting in deaths and injury of civilians,” noted ZESN.
The organisation called for an inclusive national dialogue to arrest the prevailing economic situation that has seen prices of basic commodities spiraling beyond control.
“ZESN reiterates the call for an inclusive national dialogue to find lasting solutions to the challenges bedeviling the country.
“These calls are in line with calls by President Mnangagwa, political parties, civic society and recommendations by the Monthlathe Commission for nation building and reconciliation including an initiative for multi-party dialogue and cooperation,” added ZESN.
“In addition, it is imperative that the process of national dialogue results in setting up of mechanisms that ensure conformity of electoral processes to the Constitution as well as regional and international standards to avoid disputes in future elections,” further noted ZESN.
Upon his return from his four-nation visit of Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan, President Emmerson Mnangagwa called for dialogue among all stakeholders to build consensus.
