Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has called on Zimbabweans to take a strong stand against the deteriorating human rights situation under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government.
Malema’s call comes as Zimbabwe’s political environment becomes increasingly tense ahead of the August 23 elections, with critics predicting a disputed outcome.
In an interview with SABC News, Malema urged Zimbabweans to defend their vote in order to restore peace and dignity. “They must never despair. They must continue to fight for their country and reclaim it from kleptocracy and criminality,” he said.
Malema wants Zimbabweans to “fight to take their own country back” and called for the international community to lift sanctions against the country.
He also appealed to Zimbabweans living abroad to join the struggle at home. “Zimbabweans all over the world should be marching in solidarity with the people of Zimbabwe, demanding free and fair elections,” said Malema.
Last year, a survey by ZimRights found that the upcoming elections were causing the most distress among Zimbabweans as political tensions rise.
Meanwhile, Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland has called on Zimbabwe to ensure a “peaceful, just, democratic election so the voice of the Zimbabwean people will be heard clearly.”
Malema’s calls for Zimbabweans to take a stand could resonate with many who are frustrated by the human rights abuses and worsening economic situation under Mnangagwa’s rule.
