News / National
Zanu-PF dismisses electoral interference reports
15 Nov 2024 at 08:25hrs | Views
The ruling Zanu-PF party has dismissed as malicious recent media reports suggesting it played a role in influencing electoral outcomes in South Africa, Mozambique, and Botswana.
In his weekly column published in The Sunday Mail, Zanu-PF Secretary-General Dr. Obert Mpofu categorically denied the allegations, emphasizing the party's commitment to respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other nations.
"There is no doubt that Zanu-PF is a juggernaut, but I feel at times our reach is overestimated. We neither have the capacity nor intention to participate and influence electoral outcomes in any of our neighbouring countries, and none of our supporters ever fraudulently acquired identity cards to vote in foreign polls," Dr. Mpofu said.
He described Zanu-PF as a victorious party rooted in Zimbabwe's independence history and one that maintains strong fraternal ties with political parties across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region without interfering in their internal affairs.
Rejecting "Desperate Narratives"
Dr. Mpofu attributed the allegations to Zanu-PF's detractors, whom he accused of fabricating baseless narratives in an attempt to tarnish the party's image.
"The level of callous hate that our enemies and detractors harbour towards Zanu-PF is truly mind-boggling. How is it possible that Zanu-PF could try and influence electoral outcomes in these independent, well-governed countries that have independent electoral systems?" he questioned.
He added that while Zanu-PF showed solidarity and extended moral support to sister revolutionary parties during elections in Mozambique and Botswana, its involvement did not go beyond expressions of goodwill.
Commitment to Regional Unity
Under the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Dr. Mpofu said Zanu-PF has strengthened its relations with like-minded parties in the region as part of its broader "friend-to-all-and-enemy-to-none" philosophy.
"As you may have noticed, the friend-to-all-and-enemy-to-none philosophy that has culminated in the engagement and re-engagement policy is being applied not only at Government level but also at party level. Our doors are open. We will not shy away from those who wish to connect and improve relations, as well as partner with us," he said.
Dr. Mpofu reiterated that Zanu-PF's focus remains on achieving economic emancipation for Zimbabweans. He praised the party's resilience and adherence to its principles, which, he said, have ensured its survival amid sustained attacks.
"Our principles are entrenched in our constitution and are non-negotiable," he stated, expressing confidence in the party's ability to maintain its impeccable reputation despite challenges.
Zanu-PF has faced similar accusations in the past, but it has consistently denied any interference in the political processes of its neighbours, stressing its commitment to fostering regional prosperity and unity.
In his weekly column published in The Sunday Mail, Zanu-PF Secretary-General Dr. Obert Mpofu categorically denied the allegations, emphasizing the party's commitment to respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other nations.
"There is no doubt that Zanu-PF is a juggernaut, but I feel at times our reach is overestimated. We neither have the capacity nor intention to participate and influence electoral outcomes in any of our neighbouring countries, and none of our supporters ever fraudulently acquired identity cards to vote in foreign polls," Dr. Mpofu said.
He described Zanu-PF as a victorious party rooted in Zimbabwe's independence history and one that maintains strong fraternal ties with political parties across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region without interfering in their internal affairs.
Rejecting "Desperate Narratives"
Dr. Mpofu attributed the allegations to Zanu-PF's detractors, whom he accused of fabricating baseless narratives in an attempt to tarnish the party's image.
"The level of callous hate that our enemies and detractors harbour towards Zanu-PF is truly mind-boggling. How is it possible that Zanu-PF could try and influence electoral outcomes in these independent, well-governed countries that have independent electoral systems?" he questioned.
Commitment to Regional Unity
Under the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Dr. Mpofu said Zanu-PF has strengthened its relations with like-minded parties in the region as part of its broader "friend-to-all-and-enemy-to-none" philosophy.
"As you may have noticed, the friend-to-all-and-enemy-to-none philosophy that has culminated in the engagement and re-engagement policy is being applied not only at Government level but also at party level. Our doors are open. We will not shy away from those who wish to connect and improve relations, as well as partner with us," he said.
Dr. Mpofu reiterated that Zanu-PF's focus remains on achieving economic emancipation for Zimbabweans. He praised the party's resilience and adherence to its principles, which, he said, have ensured its survival amid sustained attacks.
"Our principles are entrenched in our constitution and are non-negotiable," he stated, expressing confidence in the party's ability to maintain its impeccable reputation despite challenges.
Zanu-PF has faced similar accusations in the past, but it has consistently denied any interference in the political processes of its neighbours, stressing its commitment to fostering regional prosperity and unity.
Source - The Herald
