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| Zimbabwe bishops warn against violence ahead of presidential election |
As Zimbabwe gears up for its upcoming presidential election on August 23, the country's Catholic bishops are making a strong call for an end to political violence. President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who assumed power after a coup in 2017 and was subsequently elected in 2018, is seeking reelection for a final term. This election is taking place against the backdrop of a fragile economy that has been struggling for stability, marked by a fluctuating Zimbabwean currency and economic uncertainty.
The Zimbabwe Catholic Commission for Peace and Justice's national coordinator, Paul Muchena, expressed concerns about the country's political and economic state. He highlighted the persistently "fragile economy" that has been on a downward spiral, leading to challenges for businesses and the overall population. The aftermath of the 2018 elections saw disputed results and accusations of manipulation, causing political tensions to remain high.
Despite recent polling suggesting Mnangagwa's lead over the main opposition leader, Nelson Chamisa, public confidence in the economy remains low. Afrobarometer's survey reveals a grim picture of economic performance, which has contributed to the criticism leveled against Mnangagwa's administration by his opponents. Chamisa and Saviour Kasukuwere have accused the president of economic mismanagement and neglecting vulnerable social groups.
Amidst these concerns, Amnesty International Zimbabwe has raised alarms over a new "Patriotic Bill" signed into law by Mnangagwa's administration. This legislation, criticized for limiting democratic processes, penalizes individuals or entities participating in meetings leading to trade embargoes and military interventions against Zimbabwe. Additionally, the bill criminalizes participation in gatherings aiming to upset a constitutionally elected government, potentially resulting in jail sentences for offenders.
The Zimbabwe Democracy Institute's political analyst, Pedzisai Ruhanya, highlighted the three crucial elements underpinning a credible election: fair state media coverage, free association and assembly, and a just legal environment. These pillars are essential for maintaining a democratic process that reflects the will of the people.
Fadzayi Mahere, spokesperson for Nelson Chamisa's Citizens Coalition for Change party, emphasized the importance of respecting political freedoms in the run-up to the election. The party has raised concerns about restricted access to state media platforms. Mahere called for an independent audit of the list of eligible voters to prevent potential manipulation and urged the Christian community and Catholic Church in Zimbabwe to promote a fair electoral framework.
The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights and the Law Society of Zimbabwe expressed worries about the increasing use of violence against opposition-aligned rights defenders prior to the election. Opposition-aligned lawyers have been brutally attacked, and security agencies have cracked down on opposition rallies.
The Zimbabwean bishops' conference issued a pastoral letter emphasizing the importance of avoiding violent acts and promoting unity. The bishops highlighted the need for a united nation and urged citizens not to participate in violent attacks against one another based on political differences.
Fr. Tryvis Moyo, secretary general of the bishops' conference, acknowledged the challenge of promoting reconciliation, peace building, and justice in an environment dominated by toxic politics, particularly during election periods. Despite these difficulties, efforts have been made to foster peaceful campaigns through the bishops' Commission for Peace and Justice, which has been bringing political parties together for peace campaigns and meetings.
Other church organizations, including the Zimbabwe Council of Churches, have also condemned hate speech and derogatory language in the political sphere. Criticisms have been directed towards the involvement of children in political gatherings, which jeopardizes their safety.
President Mnangagwa and his Zanu PF party have asserted their achievements in bolstering Zimbabwe's agricultural sector and reducing food insecurity. While the country has made strides in achieving food security, challenges persist, and foreign observer missions are closely monitoring the upcoming elections.
As Zimbabwe approaches a critical juncture in its political journey, the plea for peace and the call for a fair and transparent electoral process resonate strongly. In the face of economic challenges and political tensions, the collective effort to uphold democratic values and peaceful coexistence is of paramount importance.
