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Zanu-PF, Brenthurst crew same WhatsApp group?
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Some political analysts are asking why some individuals are complaining about Zanu-PF interference in regional elections but look the other way when The Brenthurst crew interferes and influences elections in all countries.
Former Botswana President Ian Khama recently called for Southern African Development Community (SADC) sanctions against Zimbabwe's ruling party, Zanu-PF, if evidence emerges of its interference in regional elections. Khama proposed potential expulsion from SADC as a consequence of such actions, intensifying ongoing debates about Zanu-PF's influence in the region.
Allegations and Evidence
Khama's comments, made to The Namibian, reflect mounting accusations against Zanu-PF for meddling in the electoral processes of countries like Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Zambia, and South Africa.
"These actions, if substantiated, warrant severe repercussions, including sanctions and even expulsion from SADC," Khama asserted.
Regional Criticism
Political figures and rights activists across SADC have echoed concerns about Zanu-PF's alleged interference. In Namibia, Zanu-PF's ties with Swapo, Namibia's ruling party, have drawn scrutiny. Claims of secretive meetings, election funding, and involvement in ballot printing have sparked fears of manipulation in Namibia's ongoing elections.
In Mozambique, civil unrest following last month's contested polls has been partly attributed to alleged Zanu-PF-backed disruptions. Whistleblower Shepherd Yuda accused Zanu-PF of destabilizing the region to ensure liberation movements maintain dominance.
In South Africa, opposition party Democratic Alliance (DA) criticized the African National Congress (ANC) for allowing Zanu-PF influence, accusing the two parties of sharing election-rigging tactics.
Zanu-PF Defends Its Role
Zanu-PF has dismissed the allegations as baseless. Spokesperson Chris Mutsvangwa argued that Zimbabwe's historical migration ties to neighboring countries justified certain voter activities, such as dual citizens participating in Mozambique's elections.
"The Mozambique electoral system allows non-residents to vote. Many Zimbabweans are dual citizens and have the right to vote there," Mutsvangwa stated.
Zanu-PF's Secretary General Obert Mpofu refuted claims of foreign interference, saying:
"We neither have the capacity nor intention to influence electoral outcomes in our neighboring countries."
Broader Implications
The allegations have reignited debates over the influence of liberation movements in contemporary politics. Political analyst Henning Melber noted the enduring solidarity among former liberation movements like Zanu-PF, Swapo, and the ANC, emphasizing their shared agenda to retain power.
However, critics argue that this solidarity undermines democratic principles and sovereignty in the region. Leaders like Namibia's Popular Democratic Movement secretary-general Manuel Ngaringombe have urged Zanu-PF to respect neighboring nations' electoral processes.
A Divided SADC
The unfolding controversy has highlighted growing tensions within SADC over governance standards and mutual accountability. While Khama and others advocate for punitive measures, some regional leaders view such calls as "Western propaganda."
As debates continue, observers are urging SADC to establish clearer mechanisms for investigating and addressing election interference allegations to safeguard the region's democratic integrity.
Former Botswana President Ian Khama recently called for Southern African Development Community (SADC) sanctions against Zimbabwe's ruling party, Zanu-PF, if evidence emerges of its interference in regional elections. Khama proposed potential expulsion from SADC as a consequence of such actions, intensifying ongoing debates about Zanu-PF's influence in the region.
Allegations and Evidence
Khama's comments, made to The Namibian, reflect mounting accusations against Zanu-PF for meddling in the electoral processes of countries like Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Zambia, and South Africa.
"These actions, if substantiated, warrant severe repercussions, including sanctions and even expulsion from SADC," Khama asserted.
Regional Criticism
Political figures and rights activists across SADC have echoed concerns about Zanu-PF's alleged interference. In Namibia, Zanu-PF's ties with Swapo, Namibia's ruling party, have drawn scrutiny. Claims of secretive meetings, election funding, and involvement in ballot printing have sparked fears of manipulation in Namibia's ongoing elections.
In Mozambique, civil unrest following last month's contested polls has been partly attributed to alleged Zanu-PF-backed disruptions. Whistleblower Shepherd Yuda accused Zanu-PF of destabilizing the region to ensure liberation movements maintain dominance.
In South Africa, opposition party Democratic Alliance (DA) criticized the African National Congress (ANC) for allowing Zanu-PF influence, accusing the two parties of sharing election-rigging tactics.
Zanu-PF Defends Its Role
Zanu-PF has dismissed the allegations as baseless. Spokesperson Chris Mutsvangwa argued that Zimbabwe's historical migration ties to neighboring countries justified certain voter activities, such as dual citizens participating in Mozambique's elections.
"The Mozambique electoral system allows non-residents to vote. Many Zimbabweans are dual citizens and have the right to vote there," Mutsvangwa stated.
Zanu-PF's Secretary General Obert Mpofu refuted claims of foreign interference, saying:
"We neither have the capacity nor intention to influence electoral outcomes in our neighboring countries."
Broader Implications
The allegations have reignited debates over the influence of liberation movements in contemporary politics. Political analyst Henning Melber noted the enduring solidarity among former liberation movements like Zanu-PF, Swapo, and the ANC, emphasizing their shared agenda to retain power.
However, critics argue that this solidarity undermines democratic principles and sovereignty in the region. Leaders like Namibia's Popular Democratic Movement secretary-general Manuel Ngaringombe have urged Zanu-PF to respect neighboring nations' electoral processes.
A Divided SADC
The unfolding controversy has highlighted growing tensions within SADC over governance standards and mutual accountability. While Khama and others advocate for punitive measures, some regional leaders view such calls as "Western propaganda."
As debates continue, observers are urging SADC to establish clearer mechanisms for investigating and addressing election interference allegations to safeguard the region's democratic integrity.
Source - online
