The Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) has denounced current attacks on Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) members by suspected Zanu PF activists in Matabeleland region saying political party leaders and their supporters should foster peace ahead of the 2023 harmonized elections.
ZESN made the call amid what it said is the prevailing toxic political environment, which has been characterized by a spate of inter-party as well as intra-party violence that occurred in Matobo and Insiza.
“These violent clashes have a potential to adversely affect the participation in democratic electoral processes of the electorate in particular vulnerable groups. Further, political and electoral related violence undermines civil and political rights and affects citizens’ right to compete in electoral processes; erodes trust in democratic processes; undermines the quality of democracy thereby, limiting inclusive participation and leads to voter apathy as it discourages the electorate particularly women and people with disabilities to participate in electoral processes and leadership positions.”
ZESN urged political parties “to foster peace, come up with conflict management mechanisms and create a conducive political environment where divergent views are respected and where all citizens enjoy their fundamental rights without fear in line with the dictates of Section 67 (2) of the Constitution which provides for fundamental rights …”
ZESN said Zimbabweans have a right to form, to join and to participate in the activities of a political party or organization of their choice; campaign freely and peacefully for a political party or cause; participate in peaceful political activity; and participate, individually or collectively, in gatherings or groups or in any other manner, in peaceful activities to influence, challenge or support the policies of the Government or any political or whatever cause.
ZESN also urged political parties to engage the National Peace and Reconciliation Commission (NPRC) in such instances so that they investigate, speak out against violence, uncover the causes behind the conflicts, and assist all victims of the conflict, to facilitate dialogue among political parties and offer possible solutions in order to prevent conflicts and disputes arising in the future.
ZESN said the perpetrators of violence must be arrested without fear or favour.
At least 7 CCC activists have been seriously injured in the skirmishes. Zanu PF has denied any wrong doings amid reports that its members have in the last few days been attacking CCC members in areas where the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission will soon conduct council by-elections.