Zimbabwe’s main opposition party Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has publicly opposed the country’s attempt to rejoin the Commonwealth under President Mnangagwa’s leadership.
The Commonwealth, an association of 56 member states largely comprised of the British Empire which promotes peace, democracy, and development.
In a statement released by party spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi, the party’s concerns, urging the Commonwealth to reject Zimbabwe’s application for readmission, he criticized the August 2023 general elections, describing them as “deeply flawed” and marked by significant voter intimidation, manipulation by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), and unresolved irregularities in vote tallying.
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The outspoken politician highlighted the ongoing incarceration of faction leader former Harare senator Jameson Timba and other party activists who were arr3sted on 16th of June 2024.
“In addition to the failed electoral system, the opposition faces unprecedented attacks. Our members, including Amos Chibaya and Senator Timba, have been unjustly arr3st3d and detained without trial, while others remain behind bars under politically motivated charges.” Mkwananzi wrote.
The spokesperson also pointed to the fraudulent recall of 15 Members of Parliament and 17 councillors by individuals unaffiliated with the party as evidence of the regime’s subversion of democratic norms. Mkwananzi further alleged that funds intended for the party have been diverted to imposters, constraining their ability to advocate for democracy.
In light of these systemic issues, CCC spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi urged the Commonwealth to reject Zimbabwe’s application for readmission until genuine reforms are implemented.
He asserted that “Zimbabwe must restore democratic integrity and accountability before it can be welcomed back into the international community.”
