Job Sikhala, a former legislator, warns against the ruling party Zanu PF’s alleged interference in neighboring countries’ elections, notably those in Botswana and Mozambique, claiming it risks the safety of Zimbabweans in the diaspora. He highlights instances of electoral manipulation and calls for accountability to preserve regional peace.
Former Zengeza West and St Mary’s legislator Job Sikhala has expressed grave concerns regarding the actions of Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF, which he accuses of meddling in the electoral processes of neighboring nations. Sikhala, who currently chairs the National Democratic Working Group (NDWG), made his remarks following a rally in Botswana where former President Ian Khama alleged the deployment of Zanu PF agents to influence the upcoming elections slated for October 30, 2024. Incumbent President Mokgweetsi Masisi is seeking re-election amid these allegations. Sikhala claims that Zanu PF, under the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has not only attempted to rig elections in Mozambique recently but also engaged in similar activities during South Africa’s elections in May. He warned that these actions risk inciting hostility towards Zimbabweans living in the region due to the party’s disruptive behavior. “As Zimbabweans, we risk being hated everywhere in the region because of a stinking party that loves to interfere in the domestic affairs of other countries,” remarked Sikhala, reflecting on his concerns after spending 595 days in pretrial detention. The recent voting of Zanu PF supporters in Mozambique’s general elections has further called into question the credibility of the voting process, which seemed to favor the ruling Frelimo party candidate, Daniel Chapo. Notably, former Zanu PF councillor Edison Manyawi openly stated, “We are happy with what we did because Mozambique is our neighbour and helped us during the liberation struggle, so we would not hesitate to help them win the elections.” Sikhala emphasized that Zanu PF poses a considerable risk to the peace and stability of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), pointing to widespread disapproval from various political parties during the South African elections and their interference in Mozambique. He has also purportedly gathered intelligence suggesting that Zanu PF is involved in the elections of Botswana and Zambia, aiming to support the reinstatement of Edgar Lungu, a former leader in Zambia. Lungu was ousted by incumbent Hakainde Hichilema, who has taken a firm stance against Mnangagwa’s administration. Sikhala concluded by reaffirming that Zanu PF’s actions are not only damaging the relations within the region but also placing Zimbabweans in adverse positions across neighboring countries.
The article addresses the increasing allegations against Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF, of interfering in the electoral processes of its neighboring countries, particularly in Botswana and Mozambique. Job Sikhala, a notable opposition figure, provides a stark warning regarding the implications of such actions both for the credibility of democratic processes in the region and for the reputation of Zimbabweans living abroad. He cites specific instances of interference and highlights the broader regional tensions that arise from such meddling, reflecting a historical context of political relationships established during liberation struggles.
In summary, Job Sikhala’s criticisms of Zanu PF underscore the dangers posed by the party’s interference in foreign elections, potentially endangering the safety and reputation of Zimbabweans in the region. The allegations of electoral rigging across Southern Africa not only challenge democratic integrity but also exacerbate geopolitical tensions within the SADC. Sikhala’s assertions about Zanu PF’s influence in upcoming elections in Botswana and Zambia highlight an ongoing pattern that requires vigilant scrutiny to safeguard regional stability.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
