Harare – Former South African President Jacob Zuma, attending the inaugural African Voluntary Carbon Emissions Forum in Victoria Falls, has emphasized the importance of conducting free and fair elections in Zimbabwe. Zuma, who previously played a key role in brokering Zimbabwe’s unity government from 2009 to 2013, stressed that Zimbabwe should learn from its past election shortcomings to ensure that the upcoming vote reflects the will of the people and promotes a sense of belonging among citizens.

Speaking at the forum, which was also attended by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Zuma expressed concern over the consequences of political disagreements on Zimbabweans, who have been forced to leave their country in search of stability. He urged Zimbabwean authorities to analyze the shortcomings and mistakes of previous elections and take corrective measures to ensure that the next elections produce credible results, fostering an environment where all citizens feel at home and actively participate in the democratic process.

Historically, Zimbabwe’s elections have been marred by political violence and electoral irregularities, leading to disputed outcomes and undermining the credibility of the electoral process. Zuma’s remarks highlight the need for Zimbabwe to address these challenges and create a transparent and inclusive voting environment.

In a related development, Julius Malema, the president of South Africa’s opposition Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), urged Zimbabweans residing in South Africa to return home and vote in the upcoming elections. Malema encouraged Zimbabweans to take responsibility for their own future, emphasizing that they must exercise their democratic right to choose a government that will restore peace and prosperity to their country.

Malema’s EFF party even offered assistance in the form of buses to transport Zimbabweans back to their home country for the August 23 elections. By encouraging Zimbabweans in South Africa to participate in the electoral process, Malema seeks to empower them to be the drivers of change in their nation, rather than relying on external support.

South Africa has historically played a significant role in Zimbabwe’s political and economic affairs. Former South African leaders Thabo Mbeki and Kgalema Motlanthe previously facilitated talks between Zimbabwean politicians to address the country’s challenges. The involvement of influential figures like Zuma and Malema demonstrates the continued interest and concern of South Africa in ensuring stability and democracy in Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe’s upcoming elections, scheduled for August 23, will be held concurrently for local councilors, Members of Parliament, and the President. With a diverse field of 11 candidates vying for the presidency, including incumbent President Mnangagwa, opposition leader Nelson Chamisa, and former cabinet minister Saviour Kasukuwere, the elections are poised to shape the future direction of Zimbabwe.

As the election draws nearer, both internal and external voices are calling for a credible and peaceful electoral process in Zimbabwe. The lessons learned from previous elections, coupled with the active participation of Zimbabwean citizens, will be crucial in ensuring that the democratic aspirations of the nation are met and that the election results are widely accepted, ushering in a new era of stability, progress, and prosperity.