APA-Harare (Zimbabwe) Southern African churches have called on President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government to ensure a peaceful and transparent process that will reflect the will of all Zimbabweans as the country heads for tense general elections next week.
In a statement on Thursday, the Fellowship of Christian Councils in Southern Africa (FOCCISA) expressed concern at reports about the “intimidation of citizens, the loss of innocent lives and the destruction of property during the election campaigns especially unleashed against the opposition party gatherings.”
“Against this background, we encourage the security forces to observe all due diligence as they carry out their duties before, during and after elections,” FOCCISA said.
It added: “The defence forces should remain impartial and not be seen to side with one political party over another. They should at all times protect and uphold the rule of law and abide by the election code of conduct.”
The opposition has accused the police of bias in favour of the governing ZANU PF amid allegations that law enforcement officers routinely deny the main opposition Citizen Coalition for Change (CCC) permission to hold meetings.
The umbrella body of southern African churches also called on Zimbabwean authorities and the public to allow the media to carry out its duty without hindrance ahead and during the elections.
“We note with concern some reports of media attacks during the course of the election, and we urge the government, security forces, political actors, and all citizens to respect the media’s critical role by refraining from any damaging acts against them and ensuring accountability for such acts when they do occur.”
It called on observers from the African Union, Southern African Development Community and other organisations to ensure that the forthcoming elections contribute towards “an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.”
More than six million registered voters are due to choose a president, members of parliament and local government councillors on August 23 in what promises to be a two-horse race pitting ZANU PF and CCC.
JN/APA