By Albert Mpofu
The European Union (EU) Delegation to Zimbabwe has strongly condemned President Emmerson Mnangagwa for failing to bring military officers to justice in the shooting deaths of six civilians. The EU’s criticism comes amid calls for the upcoming elections in July to be held peacefully.
Despite recent efforts by Harare to engage with the international community, including extending invitations for election observations, the EU has exerted pressure on President Mnangagwa regarding unresolved issues from the past, ahead of the 2023 polls.
Expressing their concerns, the EU delegation stated, “The recommendations of the Motlanthe Commission of Inquiry have not been followed substantially, and the perspective of violations which occurred in August 2018 and January 2019 are to date still enjoying impunity from prosecution.”
The delegation emphasized the importance of adhering to international human rights obligations and respecting the constitutional rights of the Zimbabwean people. They pledged to deploy an Observer Mission once all constitutional processes have been finalized.
The EU delegation further highlighted the significance of the electoral process and urged all stakeholders, both state and non-state actors, to contribute to ensuring a credible and peaceful election.
While acknowledging some positive developments under President Mnangagwa’s administration, such as launching a dialogue platform and enacting certain laws, the EU expressed deep concerns over certain legislative pieces. Specifically, they raised alarms regarding the Data Protection Act, the Private Voluntary Organisations Amendment Bill, and the envisaged provisions in the Criminal Law Amendment Bill, citing potential threats to democratic and civic spaces.
