The Democratic Alliance said such assistance must only be provided on condition of the neighbouring country adhered to an election roadmap, which includes the necessary electoral reforms, media reforms, ensures freedom of association, ensures freedom of assembly and safeguarding the actual election process.
In a statement on Wednesday, Ian Davidson, Shadow Minister of International relations and Cooperation, said his party will be writing to President Zuma requesting that the funding not be provided to Zimbabwe unless strict preconditions are met.
“South African assistance to Zimbabwe should only be provided if assurance can be given that the elections will be free of intimidation, will allow free media access, and will not be used to bankroll Zanu-PF’s election campaign. Public funds that could otherwise be used to improve the livelihoods of South Africans should not be spent in Zimbabwe unless these conditions are met,” Davidson said in Johannesburg.
Zimbabwe recently held a referendum, paving way for a new constitution elections will be held under. While the event was largely peaceful, police embarked on a crackdown on civil society and human rights defenders.
This was reminiscent of previous elections that critics argue Robert Mugabe and Zanu (PF) used violence and rigging to retain power.
Post published in: News