Zanu PF begs Canada for backing in bid for Commonwealth readmission

By Darlington Gatsi

THE ruling party, Zanu PF, has appealed to Canada for support in ending its pariah status and rejoining the Commonwealth.

Zimbabwe, under then President Robert Mugabe, withdrew from the Commonwealth in 2003 at the height of chaotic and violent land seizures from white farmers.

Since assuming power from Mugabe in 2017, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has expressed his desire to rejoin the grouping of former British colonies.

To re-join, Zimbabwe must demonstrate that it complies with the fundamental values set out in the Commonwealth Charter, including democracy and the rule of law plus protection of human rights such as freedom of expression.

The membership process requires an assessment to be undertaken by representatives of the Secretary-General, followed by consultations with other Commonwealth countries.

However, allegations of shrinking the democratic space and disputed general elections have narrowed Zimbabwe’s chances.

Addressing the media after meeting Canadian Ambassador, Adler Aristilde, Zanu PF secretary for information, Christopher Mutsvangwa said the ruling party is pinning its hopes on Canada as an influential member to aid its readmission.

“We also expressed our desire to rejoin the Commonwealth and our expectation is an influential Canada in the Commonwealth could also push for Zimbabwe’s credentials so that we become a part of this club of friends which historically means a lot to us,” said Mutsvangwa.

Zimbabwe is currently under evaluation by the Commonwealth to check if the country meets the conditions for readmission.

Mutsvangwa also sought Canadian assistance in alleviating hunger as Zimbabwe grapples with the effects of El Nino induced drought.

Over six million people in Zimbabwe are food insecure with Mnangangwa launching an appeal for US$2 billion to avert hunger.

“This is also the year of drought, Canada is a well-developed country. We also raised the prospect of more support for our drought-stricken population because it is going to be tough months between now and March.

“It has already been bad, the government has done so much throughout the year but the next three months are going to demand a lot. So we are also reaching out to the Canadian government through the ambassador to see if there could be more Canadian aid to offset the effects of El Nino,” added Mutsvangwa.