SADC Endorses Zimbabwe Elections, Discusses DRC Situation
In a recent virtual meeting, the SADC Council of Ministers applauded Zimbabwe’s August elections.
Angola’s foreign relations minister, who chairs the body, formally congratulated Harare for conducting a peaceful poll that respected regional democratic norms.
“I wish to take this time to congratulate Zimbabwe on holding a free and fair elections in a climate of peace and tranquility and in accordance with the regional body’s principles and guidelines,” Hon Antonio said.
Zimbabwean Foreign Minister Fredrick Shava welcomed the endorsement on behalf of his government. He used the occasion to raise concerns about addressing instability in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Shava called for decisive action from SADC to help resolve the DRC’s ongoing security issues. The region is still recovering from economic fallout of the pandemic, he noted, making it important to craft solutions that don’t overburden member states. At the same time, Shava stressed providing adequate funding for regional peacekeeping so it can achieve goals.
The council gathering preceded an extraordinary SADC summit addressing various concerns across Southern Africa. In acknowledging Zimbabwe’s electoral process as open and legitimate, the ministers affirmed common principles of transparency and non-violence. Their discussion reflects the bloc’s focus on promoting stability through coordinated multi-national cooperation.
