GOVERNMENT REJECTS FRED M’MEMBE CLAIMS OF FOREIGN INFLUENCE IN THE RECENTLY HELD ZIMBABWEAN ELECTIONS
GOVERNMENT has described claims by Socialist Party leader Fred M’membe alleging foreign influence in the SADC Electoral Observation Mission (SEOM) preliminary report on the recent Zimbabwean elections as unfounded.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Stanley Kakubo said casting assertions that President Hichilema or any other person could have influenced the outcome of the recently concluded election is a misguided notion.
He said such claims lack a substantiated foundation and detract from the impartial nature of SEOM’s efforts.
“Given Dr M’membe’s background as a qualified lawyer, it is presumed that he is well-aware of the fundamental principle that serious allegations, such as the ones he made, suggesting external foundation sponsorship of various leaders, must be underpinned by concrete and verifiable evidence.
This premise stands as a cornerstone within legal discourse and investigative practices. The absence of substantiated claims not only jeopardises the credibility of the individual making such allegations but also diminishes the integrity of their arguments, reducing them to the realm of baseless informal speculation,” he said.
Mr Kakubo said it is essential, therefore, to refrain from engaging in personal attacks directly or overtly targeting individuals associated with the vital work of SEOM, as such actions prove counterproductive.
And the Minister said President Hakainde Hichilema as the Chair of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defense, and Security Cooperation, is yet to receive the comprehensive SEOM report on Zimbabwe’s elections.
“This report, as a matter of protocol, will subsequently be presented before the entire SADC leadership, ensuring a collective and judicious evaluation. Thus, personal attacks on the President not only come across as premature but also suggest a need for more mature reflection, especially considering the present absence of a comprehensive foundation for assessment,” he said.
He said the Zambian Government remains steadfast in promoting thoughtful, respectful, and evidence-based discussions in all regional and democratic matters. Through a diplomatic and principled approach, we aim to contribute positively to the collective progress and stability of our region,” Mr Kakubo said.
Mwebantu