Job Sikhala has condemned Zanu PF for reportedly interfering in elections in Botswana and Mozambique, warning that such actions may endanger Zimbabweans living abroad. He highlights claims of electoral fraud and asserts that Zanu PF’s meddling poses a threat to regional peace and security amid historical political ties within the SADC.

Job Sikhala, former legislator for Zengeza West and St Mary’s, has publicly admonished Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF, for its alleged meddling in the internal political affairs of other nations, particularly in Botswana where elections are set to take place on October 30, 2024. This statement follows remarks made by former President Ian Khama, who accused Zanu PF of sending agents to manipulate the electoral process in Botswana. Sikhala emphasized the danger that this interference poses to Zimbabweans living abroad, suggesting that Zanu PF’s actions could incite animosity towards Zimbabweans in the region. Sikhala is the current chairman of the National Democratic Working Group (NDWG) and has drawn attention to Zanu PF’s purported involvement in election rigging in Mozambique and South Africa. He stated that the Zimbabwean government, led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who also chairs the Southern African Development Community (SADC), is fostering a climate of distrust and discontent among neighboring countries. Sikhala noted that Zanu PF is, unfortunately, creating obstacles for Zimbabweans abroad, equating their political maneuvers to those of states that sponsor terrorism. Notably, there have been credible reports of Zanu PF supporters voting in recent Mozambican elections, raising questions regarding the legitimacy of the election results favoring the ruling Frelimo party, a prior ally of Zanu PF during Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle. Former Zanu PF councillor Edison Manyawi publicly admitted to voting for Frelimo, stating, “We are happy with what we did because Mozambique is our neighbour and helped us during the liberation struggle, so we would not hesitate to help them win the elections.” This statement further underscores Sikhala’s assertions about Zanu PF’s regional interference. Additionally, Sikhala has intelligence suggesting that Zanu PF is also attempting to disrupt upcoming elections in Botswana and Zambia. He highlighted efforts to revive former Zambian President Edgar Lungu, a long-time ally of Zanu PF, who was ousted by incumbent Hakainde Hichilema. Sikhala warned that Zanu PF’s actions could destabilize regional peace and security and brandished the party as a threat not only to Zimbabweans but to the integrity of the SADC as a whole.

The article discusses the alleged involvement of Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF, in the electoral processes of neighboring countries, particularly Botswana and Mozambique. Job Sikhala, an opposition politician, criticizes Zanu PF for risking the safety and reputation of Zimbabweans abroad through its interference in foreign elections. The context is set against the backdrop of historical political alliances within southern Africa, particularly during the liberation struggles, which continue to influence current political dynamics.

In summary, Job Sikhala has vehemently criticized Zanu PF for its interventions in the electoral affairs of Botswana and Mozambique, warning that such actions could backfire on Zimbabweans in the region. He highlights the pervasive influence of Zanu PF in destabilizing political landscapes in Southern Africa, underscoring the necessity for a more respectful approach to regional governance and cooperation.

Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com

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