The European Union (EU) has condemned the political violence and intimidation in Bikita West ahead of the by-election set for two days from now on Saturday 21 January 2017. This follows the assault on NCA candidate Madock Chivasa yesterday. Chivasa and his election manager Thomas Mudzamiri were attacked by alleged Zanu-PF supporters. A few weeks ago Shuvai Mahofa threatened that there would be violence and abductions if Zanu PF did not win.
Joint local statement on intimidation and political violence
The European Union Delegation, the Heads of Mission of EU Member States present in Harare and the Head of Mission of Switzerland issue the following statement in Zimbabwe:
The Heads of Mission of the EU and Switzerland express their deep concern at reports of intimidation and violence against political candidates in the run up to the Bikita West by-election.
The Heads of Mission note the obligation of the authorities to protect the democratic rights of all citizens. It is the responsibility of the Government of Zimbabwe to ensure that justice is served.
The Heads of Mission of the EU and Switzerland urge all parties to respect democratic principles and contribute to a peaceful election.
The UK ‘s ambassador Catriona Laing also said that election observers from the UK will be monitoring the situation and the elections starting from the day before the polls. In a tweet Laing said:
The UK is deeply concerned. UK election observers will be on the ground from Friday
@UKinZimbabwe
https://twitter.com/CatrionaLaing1/status/822068402722394112