Midlands political players pledge election peace

Gweru (New Ziana) – All the country’s main political parties signed a Midlands post-election peace pledge here on Wednesday, promising to refrain from violence whatever the outcome of next week’s vote.
The country goes to the polls next Wednesday to elect a new president, and parliamentary and local government representatives for the next five years.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is seeking a second presidential term, is leading government calls for peace and harmony before, during and after voting.
Separately, churches and other stakeholders are organising local signature of peace pledges by contesting political parties to ensure violence-free polls.
In the past, elections would be characterised by inter-party skirmishes, often stirred by the opposition, to create grounds to dispute the outcome.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, president of the Zimbabwe Council of Churches, Bishop Ignatius Makumbe, implored political parties to encourage their supporters to maintain peace.
“All political parties must teach their affiliates to practice peace before, during and after elections so as to promote ongoing national developmental programmes,” he said.
Through the peace pledge, all signatories political parties promised to refrain from violence, and fully comply with the provisions of the Electoral Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates and other stakeholders contained in the Fourth Schedule of the Electoral Act (Chapter 2:13).
Ruling Zanu PF deputy secretary for legal affairs, Advocate Fortune Chasi said peace was the responsibility of everyone.
“Peace is a responsibility for everyone, local leaders must preach peace, tolerance and respect the rights of all political parties, candidates and stakeholders for free, fair and peaceful elections,” he said.
“Ensure that all citizens’ and voters’ rights to freedom of expression, association, personal choice and secrecy of the ballot are guaranteed,” he said.
Aspiring Citizens Coalition for Change legislator for Gweru Urban constituency, Josiah Makombe condemned violence and encouraged the nation to avoid activities that infringe other people’s rights.
“We condemn all individuals, organizations and associations that conduct political activities which infringe on the commitments of the Electoral Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates and other stakeholders and threaten credible and peaceful elections,” he said.
Executive Secretary of the Zimbabwe Media Commission, Godwin Phiri said elections come and go, hence they must not destroy national oneness that is prevailing, and the media should ensure equal access and coverage for all.
“I urge you all to remain united and peaceful before, during and after elections as these come and go,” he said.
New Ziana