Zimbabwe is preparing to host an Extraordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government in Harare next week, with significant political discussions on the agenda.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa, currently serving as the chairperson of SADC, will lead the summit, which is scheduled to take place from November 16 to 20, 2024.
The meeting will address the recent general elections in Mozambique and Botswana, respectively, as well as the upcoming elections in Namibia on November 27.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Jenfan Muswere confirmed the summit’s focus on emerging issues of regional importance during a post-cabinet briefing in Harare on Tuesday.
“The nation is informed that an Extraordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government is scheduled to be held in Harare from 16th to 20th November 2024, primarily to address emerging issues of regional significance,” he said.
Recent events in Mozambique have heightened the urgency of these discussions. Following the disputed elections, violence erupted, leading to the death of lawyer Elvino Dias, who represented presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane, and opposition politician Paulo Guambe in Maputo. Mondlane has reportedly fled to South Africa, alleging that he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt.
Human Rights Watch has reported at least 11 fatalities attributed to security forces during ongoing protests against the election results.
In addition, around 50 individuals have sustained serious gunshot wounds amid the unrest. The situation in Mozambique remains tense, with protests continuing in various regions across the country.
The upcoming SADC summit will likely seek to address the fallout from the elections in Mozambique and the implications for regional stability.
Leaders will discuss regional political developments, focusing on promoting peaceful and democratic processes, while fostering dialogue and cooperation among SADC nations amid ongoing tensions.
-Herald
