A final report released by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) a month and a half after Zimbabwe’s elections has highlighted glaring irregularities, sparking controversy and accusations from the Zimbabwean government. The SADC Electoral Observation Mission (SEOM) maintained its initial findings, despite attempts by Harare to discredit the report and its head, Nevers Mumba, former Zambian vice president.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, in his role as the chairperson of the SADC troika on defence and politics, expressed concerns about the attack on SEOM, emphasizing that such actions undermined SADC’s role.
The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) welcomed the report, stating that it supports their demand for fresh elections in Zimbabwe. The party highlighted numerous irregularities revealed in the report, emphasizing the need for a level playing field during the elections. The CCC proposed establishing a transitional authority, guided by SADC, to oversee fresh elections in a credible electoral environment. They expressed distrust in the current Zimbabwe Electoral Commission’s ability to administer fair elections.
However, political commentator and former government minister Professor Jonathan Moyo contested the CCC’s demands, stating that the final report did not support calls for fresh elections or the establishment of a National Transitional Authority. He dismissed the notion that the report advocated for an extraordinary SADC Summit.
Zanu-PF’s secretary for information and publicity, Christopher Mutsvangwa, announced President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s willingness to engage in dialogue with CCC leader Nelson Chamisa. Mutsvangwa highlighted the offer for open engagement between the two leaders and all Zimbabwean people.