By Akson Potera
Subject: Urgent Call for National Dialogue to Address Electoral Issues in Zimbabwe
Dear Secretaries (of) the SADC, AU and the UN .
I am writing to bring to your attention the persistent concerns regarding the integrity of elections in Zimbabwe. Since 2000, the country has witnessed a series of elections that have been marred by allegations of rigging, violence, and human rights abuses.
The most recent elections in 2023 were deemed not free and fair by the SADC EU election observer missions, echoing concerns raised in previous elections.
The lack of progress in addressing these electoral issues has led to a cycle of violence, intimidation, and repression. Unfortunately, this has resulted in the loss of lives, displacement of people, and a general atmosphere of fear and mistrust.
The international community has consistently expressed concerns about the electoral process in Zimbabwe, but tangible actions to address these issues have been limited.
The international community has consistently expressed concerns about the electoral process in Zimbabwe, but tangible actions to address these issues have been limited.
In light of the upcoming elections in 2028, it is imperative that the UN, AU, and SADC take proactive measures to ensure that Zimbabwe adheres to acceptable election standards.
We urge you to initiate a National Dialogue that brings together all stakeholders, including the government, opposition parties, civil society, and the broader Zimbabwean diaspora.
This dialogue should aim to address the root causes of the electoral problems, promote national healing, and create a conducive environment for free, fair, and credible elections.
The rationale behind this proposal is to prevent further socio-economic instability in the region. The outcomes of flawed elections in Zimbabwe have far-reaching consequences, affecting not only the country itself but also its neighbors.
For instance, the South African health department has started to feel the pinch due to the influx of Zimbabweans seeking medical attention. It is in the interest of regional stability and prosperity that we address these issues collectively.
Zimbabwe has immense potential for economic development and growth. With the right leadership and policies, the country can serve itself economically and cease to be a burden on its neighbors.
A National Dialogue can help unlock this potential and restore Zimbabwe to its former glory.
We request that the UN, AU, and SADC take the following actions:
- Initiate a National Dialogue in Zimbabwe, bringing together all stakeholders to address electoral issues and promote national healing.
- Provide technical assistance and support to ensure that the dialogue is inclusive, transparent, and effective.
- Monitor the progress of the dialogue and provide regular updates to the international community.
We pose the following question to you: After observing that the elections were not free and fair, what actions did you take to ensure that the member state adheres to acceptable election standards? If not, why?
Will this not cause further socio-economic instability in the region?
We believe that it is time for collective action to address the electoral issues in Zimbabwe. If no meaningful action is taken, Zimbabweans and their neighbors who are affected by the outcomes of these flawed elections will be forced to take matters into their own hands.
We look forward to your prompt response and action on this matter.
Sincerely,
Akson Potera
A Potera – Concerned SADC citizen and, most importantly, African. The views expressed are his alone, and do not reflect the editorial position of the Sunday Express or the DSE News Network
