THE European Union Ambassador to Zimbabwe His Excellency Jobst von Kirchmann says the upcoming harmonized elections will be a great opportunity to accelerate progress in this process and to trigger more positive changes for the country.
By Michael Gwarisa
Zimbabwe is set to hold harmonized elections in August this year even though the President is yet to proclaim the actual date for the election.
Speaking at the European Union Day Commemorations in Harare, Ambassador Kirchmann said the fate of Zimbabwe’s is in the hands of Zimbabweans.
I would like to commend all political actors here present who regularly advocate for free, fair, peaceful and inclusive elections. As the EU, we can only make our small contribution to the electoral process by supporting the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission in fulfilling its constitutional mandate, working with civil society, and through an Electoral Observation Mission, as I am confident that it will be invited. But, in any case, the elections are in your hands, in the hand of all Zimbabweans, and I trust that you will handle this enormous responsibility with sovereignty and care,” said Ambassador Kirchmann.
“As I mentioned earlier, our motto is “United in Diversity “…. And I believe that Zimbabwe shares this vision. When I read the Preamble of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, it says: “We, the people of Zimbabwe, United in our diversity. I think this sentence holds significant meaning, especially during this election year. It is essential to remember that all Zimbabweans, regardless of their differing opinions and standpoints, and we, as partners, share the same objective: the success of Zimbabwe in its ambitious vision 2030.”
He commended the government for their leadership and ownership of the exchange rates, macroeconomic stability, good governance, and land issues initiative.
“From its own strategies and plans, the Government is proposing to measure success according to international indicators that cover essential governance aspects, such as democratic elections, civil society space, freedom of expression, assembly, and association, as well as the impartiality of the judicial system, to name just a few. The measures taken to stabilize the exchange rate and macro economy, represent another expression of commitment and of ownership of a sovereign country who lives up to the image that “only Zimbabwean know what is best for Zimbabwe.”
Speaking at the same event, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Hon. Frederick M. M. Shava cherished the cordial relations between Zimbabwe and the EU.
“Sustainable peace and inclusive development are key to creating better wealth for all and the future that we all want. My government appreciates the EU’s commitment to chatting a new positive trajectory towards improving our relations. We appreciate very much these efforts and hope that we continue to improve these relations between the government and the EU for mutual benefit and win-win outcomes,” said Hon Shava.
