Observers: ask SADC to help

Even though no position has been reached yet and the parties to the Global Political Agreement are yet to formally engage each other on the matter, there is evidence of acrimony among the stakeholders.

Zanu (PF), on one hand, makes no secret of the fact that it will not brook western observers, as has been the case in the past decade or so. The other parties want observers from all over the world. Zanu (PF)’s main argument is that western observers are biased against the party and its leader, President Robert Mugabe and would, therefore, fail to observe the elections in an objective manner.

Its political rivals, however, see no merit in that argument, accusing Zanu (PF) of being scared of international scrutiny that they say is vital to promote freedom and fairness before, during and after the polls.

Whatever the merits and demerits of these arguments, the issue of international observers is a sensitive one that needs urgent attention. We urge the parties to the GPA to treat the matter with haste and ask the SADC facilitation team to help them come up with a sustainable position.

Given the acute polarity that surrounds the matter, it is unlikely that the parties will come up with an amicable compromise. The earlier the matter is taken to SADC for facilitation the better. Leaving it to the last minute poses the risk of drawn-out delays normally associated with intra-party negotiations.

It would be imprudent to open talks on observers after the proclamation of election dates. At that point, a decision should already have been made and what should remain is to fine-tune the logistics.

There is no doubt that SADC has the duty and calling to take centre stage, in line with the mandate conferred on its facilitation team headed by President Jacob Zuma. There is nothing wrong with the regional body even making pre-emptive moves to resolve issues dividing the GNU, as it has done in the past.