Mnangagwa dispatches a special envoy

Zimbabwe has stepped up its campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term, with President Emmerson Mnangagwa dispatching a special envoy to the Pacific Islands to rally support ahead of elections set for June 3.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Professor Amon Murwira, arrived in Nuku'alofa in the Kingdom of Tonga on Friday, marking the first leg of a strategic diplomatic mission aimed at consolidating backing from Small Island Developing States. Murwira is travelling in his capacity as Special Envoy of President Mnangagwa, carrying a message of solidarity and enhanced cooperation.

During his visit, Murwira met Tonga's Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lord Fatafehi Fakafanua. The two leaders reaffirmed diplomatic relations dating back to 1999 and explored avenues for strengthened South-to-South cooperation.

Lord Fakafanua welcomed the outreach, noting shared foreign policy principles between the two nations. He said Tonga subscribes to the principle of being a "Friend to All and Enemy to None," adding that inclusivity and openness are central to its diplomatic approach. He highlighted cultural and value-based similarities between the two countries and expressed optimism about deepening ties not only with Zimbabwe but also with the broader African region.

While emphasising that Tonga would carefully consider all candidates in the upcoming Security Council elections, Lord Fakafanua wished Zimbabwe success in its bid and underscored the potential for closer collaboration between Pacific nations and African states.

Zimbabwe's Pacific outreach will also include visits to the Solomon Islands and the Fiji, as Harare seeks to secure support from a key voting bloc within the United Nations system.

The diplomatic push reflects Zimbabwe's determination to build broad-based international backing as it seeks a greater role in global peace and security through a temporary seat on the Security Council.