More than 2,000 Mozambican families sought refuge in Malawi last week as violent protests erupted over a disputed election on October 9, resulting in dozens of deaths.
Monitoring group Plataforma Decide reported that the death toll had reached 125 since the court’s decision and 252 since late October.
On Christmas Day, over 1,500 prisoners escaped from Maputo Central Prison, taking advantage of the national protests following the disputed polls.
According to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/mozambicans-flee-neighbouring-malawi-amid-post-election-unrest-2024-12-27/">Reuters</a>, some businesses, including banks, were closed in Mozambique’s capital, Maputo, on Friday, and patrols were set up in some areas.
A senior Malawian official said that as of Wednesday, 2,182 Mozambican households fleeing the violence had crossed into Malawi’s Nsanje district, which borders Mozambique.
In a letter to the country’s commissioner for refugees seen by Reuters, Nsanje district commissioner Dominic Mwandira described the situation as dire, with people urgently requiring humanitarian assistance.
Protests in Mozambique intensified after the Constitutional Council announced on December 23 that FRELIMO’s presidential candidate, Daniel Chapo, secured approximately 65% of the vote, a decrease from the 70% reported by the electoral commission in October.
The Council also adjusted the number of parliamentary seats awarded to FRELIMO, though the reasons for these changes were not disclosed.
Mozambique’s main opposition leader, Venancio Mondlane, who the Constitutional Council said came second in the presidential election and who rejects the results, has called for more protests from his supporters but urged them not to loot or damage infrastructure.
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Thousands of families from Mozambique ran away to Malawi because of fighting after the election. Many people died. Some prisoners escaped during the chaos. In Mozambique, some businesses closed, and there were patrols. Lots of families crossed into Malawi and need help. The election results changed, causing more problems. The opposition leader wants more protests but no violence. People are worried and need help.

Over 2,000 Mozambican Families Flee To Malawi Amid Post-Election Violence

President Emmerson Mnangagwa, the current chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), has urged political parties in Mozambique to respect the results of the October 9, 2024, presidential election, which the country’s Constitutional Council confirmed on December 23.
The Constitutional Council announced that FRELIMO’s presidential candidate, Daniel Chapo, secured approximately 65% of the vote, a decrease from the 70% reported by the electoral commission in October.
The Council also adjusted the number of parliamentary seats awarded to FRELIMO, though the reasons for these changes were not revealed.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, December 25, Mnangagwa called on all political parties and candidates to accept the election results, saying this is a core principle of the rule of law.
While South Africa has called for dialogue and offered to mediate, Mnangagwa asserted that other countries should respect Mozambique’s sovereignty and refrain from interfering in its internal affairs. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The Southern Africa Development Community, SADC, notes and acknowledges the ruling and confirmation on Monday, 23rd December, 2024, by the Constitutional Council of Election Results held in the Republic Mozambique on 9th October this year.
The ruling by that country’s top electoral court, which upheld FRELIMO Party’s victory, completes and thus exhausts all lawful processes on determining election results, in line with that country’s national laws, and in keeping with SADC’s Election Guidelines and expectations.
SADC thus expects all parties to the electoral process, both individually and collectively, to abide by the decision of the Council which should provide a constitutional way forward for the country, and facilitate the way to greater peace, normalcy and stability in the interest of all Mozambicans.
SADC stands ready to assist the incoming Government, and People of Mozambique, in consolidating their electoral democracy on the basis of the aforesaid Court decision which should be held sacrosanct by all. Indeed, this is what the rule of law is all about.
Further, SADC urges the international community to respect the sovereign will of the people and the Republic of Mozambique, exhorting all concerned to constructively support all processes towards peace, law and order which the country and people sorely need and deserve.
Our Region witnessed a record number of national elections in the last two years, itself a loud testimony that democracy continues to find deeper roots and to flourish in our SADC Region.
</blockquote>
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President Mnangagwa told political parties in Mozambique to accept the results of the election that happened in October. FRELIMO's candidate won with 65% of the vote. The number of seats FRELIMO got in parliament changed too. Mnangagwa said it's important for political parties to follow the rules and accept the results. He also said other countries should stay out of Mozambique's business. The Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) supported the election results and wants everyone to work together for peace and stability in Mozambique. They also want people from other countries to respect Mozambique's decisions.

Mnangagwa Urges Mozambique's Political Parties To Respect Election Results

Mozambique’s main opposition leader, Venâncio Mondlane, has announced he will declare himself president on 15 January, rejecting his defeat in the October 09 presidential elections.
Mondlane’s supporters have staged violent protests across the country, demanding an end to Frelimo’s 49-year rule.
Since Monday, December 23, when the country’s Constitutional Council confirmed the election results, at least 21 people have been killed in the unrest, with FRELIMO offices, police stations, banks, and factories being looted, vandalized, and set ablaze.
<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cq5lyj6l6v6o">BBC reported</a> that the capital, Maputo, was eerily quiet on Christmas Eve, with businesses closed and people staying at home to avoid the escalating violence.
The unrest followed Mozambique’s highest court upholding the victory of FRELIMO’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, in the October elections. Mondlane challenged the result, claiming the election was rigged.
Mondlane, currently in self-imposed exile, declared he would assume the presidency on 15 January, the same day Chapo is set to be sworn in. He has not specified how he plans to take office.
Mondlane, currently in self-imposed exile, declared he would assume the presidency on 15 January, the same day Chapo is set to be sworn in. He has not specified how he plans to take office.
Despite his rejection of the election result, Mondlane has urged his supporters to remain peaceful, stating, “We are with the people. We do not advocate any form of violence.”
The electoral commission initially declared Chapo the winner with 71% of the vote, but the Constitutional Council revised the result to 65% for Chapo and 24% for Mondlane.
Rights groups have reported over 100 deaths since the election, blaming security forces for many of the killings, although police claim they were defending themselves from attacks.
Mondlane, an evangelical pastor, ran as an independent after splitting from the RENAMO party. His support is strongest among young, unemployed Mozambicans seeking change.
Chapo, FRELIMO’s youngest-ever candidate, has rejected accusations of election rigging.
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Venâncio Mondlane, the opposition leader in Mozambique, says he will make himself president on January 15, even though he lost the election. His supporters are protesting and causing violence in the country. The ruling party, FRELIMO, has been in power for almost 50 years. After the election result was confirmed, there have been many deaths and lots of damage. Mondlane wants to take office on the same day as the official winner, Daniel Chapo. Despite all this, Mondlane is telling his supporters to be peaceful. A lot of people have died since the election, with some blaming the police for the violence. Mondlane is popular among young people who want to see a change.

Mozambique Opposition Leader Venâncio Mondlane Vows To Install Himself President On 15 January

The South African government said it is ready to facilitate dialogue to end post-election violence in Mozambique.
In a statement released on Tuesday, December 24, Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation Spokesperson Chrispin Phiri said South Africa was calling on all parties to commit to urgent dialogue.
Phiri said such dialogue is essential for healing the nation and establishing a new political and developmental path for Mozambique. Said Phiri:
<blockquote>
Following the proclamation final electoral results by the Constitutional Council of Mozambique, South Africa has noted with concern the ongoing violence and the subsequent disruptive protest in reaction to the announcement.
South Africa calls on all parties to commit to an urgent dialogue that will heal the country and set it on a new political and developmental trajectory.
Furthermore, South Africa is ready to assist Mozambique in any manner to facilitate this dialogue.
The South African government will continue working with SADC and other multilateral agencies in supporting a lasting solution to the current impasse. South Africa calls on all parties to exercise restraint and calm.
</blockquote>
On Monday, Mozambique’s Constitutional Council confirmed that the ruling party FRELIMO had won the October elections.
The announcement led to protests and demonstrations nationwide, as organisations, opposition parties, and election observers noted irregularities and alleged vote rigging.
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South Africa wants to help stop the fighting in Mozambique after the recent elections. They are asking everyone to talk to each other and find a way to make peace. The ruling party won the election, but some people are not happy and are protesting. South Africa is offering to mediate and help Mozambique find a new way forward. They want everyone to be calm and work together for a solution. They are working with other countries and organizations to find a peaceful end to the fighting.

South Africa Calls For Dialogue In Mozambique, Offers To Mediate In Ending Post-election Violence

President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s spokesperson, George Charamba, has urged the Mozambican government to take a firm stance against opposition politician Venancio Mondlane and his supporters for rejecting the results of the October 9 elections.
The country’s Constitutional Council confirmed the ruling party FRELIMO’s victory on December 23, leading to massive protests by opposition groups who claim the vote was rigged.
Western observers have said the election was not free and fair, resulting in the largest protests against FRELIMO in Mozambique’s history.
However, Charamba believes that once the top court has made a decision, everyone should accept it and move on. Posted Charamba on X:
<blockquote>
HE CAN’T BURN DOWN A WHOLE NATION IN THE NAME OF SOME MEASLY 24% SUPPORT, SURELY!!!!!!!! The Mozambican Govt must show its firm hand, now that the courts have spoken!!!!!!
</blockquote>
At least 130 people have been killed in clashes with police, according to the civil society group Plataforma Decide.
The Constitutional Council announced that FRELIMO presidential candidate Daniel Chapo secured about 65% of the vote, lower than the 70% reported by the electoral commission in late October.
The Constitutional Council also gave FRELIMO fewer seats in parliament without explaining the changes.
FRELIMO has been accused of rigging votes since 1994, though it denies these claims.
A representative of opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, who came second with about 24% of the vote, rejected the results announced on Monday.
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President Mnangagwa's spokesperson wants Mozambique to stop opposition from protesting election results. The ruling party won, but many say the election was not fair. The spokesperson says everyone should accept the court's decision. There have been big protests and clashes with police. The ruling party has been accused of cheating in elections before. The opposition leader's representative doesn't accept the results. The ruling party got fewer seats in parliament than expected. The situation is tense in Mozambique.

Mnangagwa's Spokesperson Demands Mozambique Crush Opposition For Rejecting Election Results

South African opposition leader Mmusi Maimane has urged the South African government to assist Mozambican politicians in finding an amicable solution to the electoral dispute in the neighbouring country.
Mozambique has experienced sporadic violence and protests since the disputed October 9 election, after the opposition rejected the official results.
Maimane warned President Cyril Ramaphosa against ignoring the Mozambican crisis, referencing former South African President Thabo Mbeki’s handling of the Zimbabwean crisis in 2008. Said Maimane:
<blockquote>
South Africa looked the other way when Robert Mugabe and Emmerson Mnangagwa rigged an election in 2008 and it created an immigration crisis in South Africa.
Now we are faced with an election crisis in Mozambique. Political leaders were assassinated during the election, and ZANU PF sent people to vote from Zimbabwe. This was captured on video.
International observers raised multiple concerns about the election. The people on the ground raised complaints about the election. The internet was shut down and the police brutalized the public.
</blockquote>
On Monday, December 23, Mozambique’s Constitutional Council confirmed the governing party FRELIMO’s victory.
However, the Constitutional Council revised FRELIMO presidential candidate Daniel Chapo’s margin of victory downwards.
Initial results in October indicated that Chapo gained a 71% share of the vote to Venâncio Mondlane’s 20%. The court ruled that Chapo won 65% to Mondlane’s 24%.
Maimane warned that if South Africa ignored the concerns raised by the opposition in Mozambique, the socio-economic situation in the country would deteriorate further, potentially forcing hundreds of thousands of Mozambicans to flee and migrate to South Africa. Said Maimane:
<blockquote>
If Cyril Ramaphosa and Ronald Lamola lend South African support to the Frelimo candidate Daniel Chapo we will repeat the mistakes of 2002 and 2008 in Zimbabwe and enable denial of democracy in Mozambique and accelerate the immigration crisis in South Africa.
A fire that burns next door is a domestic issue. A flood next door will eventually flood your yard. We must raise our voice to support the brave youth who are refusing to have yet another election manipulated in Mozambique.
We have taken a stand in Ukraine. We have taken a stand on Morocco. We have taken a stand in the Middle East. Why are we failing to take a stand in our own neighbourhood.
Why are we failing to match the rigour and moral fortitude when the lives affected are black children in Zimbabwe, Mozambique and eSwatini. We cannot roar overseas and mew in our own neighbourhood.
</blockquote>
The BOSA leader urged the South African government to refrain from accepting the Mozambican election results as announced.
Some international election observers have raised concerns about the transparency of the polls. Said Maimane:
<blockquote>
South Africa must stand with the people of Mozambique today. We must not repeat the mistakes we made in Zimbabwe. We must not rubber-stamp illegitimate elections.
It does not matter if Fikile Mbalula wants to be best friends with Zanu PF and Frelimo. The ANC must recognize that they cannot put historical friendships above the current crisis affecting the people on the ground.
</blockquote>
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Mmusi Maimane, a leader in South Africa, is asking the government to help Mozambique fix a problem with their election. Mozambique has had issues and protests since the election on October 9. The ruling party, FRELIMO, won the election, but there are concerns about how fair it was. Maimane is worried that if the problems are not fixed, many people will suffer and might have to move to South Africa. He is asking South Africa to not accept the election results until everything is sorted out. He wants South Africa to support the people of Mozambique and make sure the election is fair.

Maimane Calls For Action On Mozambican Electoral Dispute

Zimbabwe’s ruling party, ZANU PF, has firmly rejected predictions from South African opposition MP Mmusi Maimane that it could be the next political party to fall, following the recent defeat of the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) in the October 30 elections.
The BDP, which had ruled Botswana for 58 years, suffered a heavy loss to the opposition Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), led by Duma Gideon Boko, in a landslide victory.
ZANU PF had shown strong support for the BDP during the campaign, with some of its senior officials sent to Botswana to help with the BDP’s election efforts.
Despite this, ZANU PF has dismissed any comparisons to the BDP’s defeat, insisting that the party is here to stay and remains firmly in control of Zimbabwe’s political landscape. Said Maimane:
<blockquote>
Chest pains. ZANU PF is next. We know you wanted your best friend Masisi to win but Batswana said no.
</blockquote>
In response to Maimane’s remarks, ZANU PF Director of Information Farai Marapira said the party has consistently fulfilled the aspirations of Zimbabweans, and as a result, the people will grant it another mandate in 2028. He said:
<blockquote>
ZANU PF is not going anywhere, ZANU PF will be here today, and ZANU PF will be here in 2028 because we continue to fulfil the needs of our people. We continue to satisfy the dreams of our people and that is what gets people into office.
</blockquote>
Marapira also denied allegations that ZANU PF stays in power through voter intimidation, asserting that the party has no need to intimidate anyone, as it consistently delivers on its promises.
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ZANU PF, the ruling party in Zimbabwe, said they won't fall like the Botswana Democratic Party. They rejected claims from Mmusi Maimane, a South African opposition member. The Botswana party lost after ruling for 58 years and ZANU PF supported them in the elections. ZANU PF says they fulfill the people's needs and won't be going away. They think they will still be in power in 2028. They deny using intimidation to stay in power. Maimane thinks ZANU PF will be next to fall.

ZANU PF Dismisses Mmusi Maimane’s Claim It Could Be Next to Fall

South African opposition Member of Parliament and former leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA), Mmusi Maimane, has warned ZANU PF that it could be the next party to fall, following the recent defeat of the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) in the elections held on October 30.
The BDP, which had been in power for 58 years, lost to the opposition Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), led by Duma Gideon Boko, in a landslide victory.
This victory for the opposition in Botswana mirrors a similar trend in South Africa, where the African National Congress (ANC), in power since the end of Apartheid in 1994, lost its majority for the first time and had to form a coalition government with several other parties.
In Zambia, opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema defeated the incumbent Edgar Lungu, and in Malawi, opposition figure Lazarus Chakwera emerged victorious.
However, in Mozambique, where FRELIMO was declared the winner, several people have been killed in post-election violence.
Maimane pointed out that ZANU PF had supported Masisi after the party sent some of its heavyweights to campaign in Botswana for the BDP in the run-up to the election. Said Maimane:
<blockquote>
Chest pains. ZANU PF is next. We know you wanted your best friend Masisi to win but Batswana said no.
</blockquote>
ZANU PF openly declared support for the BDP, with ZANU PF legal secretary Patrick Chinamasa, addressing rallies in Botswana.
In Mozambique, President Emmerson Mnangagwa was quick to congratulate the FRELIMO party and its leader, Daniel Chapo, even before the official results were announced.
However, in the case of Botswana, Mnangagwa did not immediately congratulate Duma Gideon Boko, despite Masisi’s prompt concession and congratulations to his rival.
Mnangagwa eventually sent his best wishes, but the congratulatory statement was signed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amon Murwira.
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Mmusi Maimane, a South African politician, warned ZANU PF that they could lose next after the BDP lost in Botswana elections. The BDP had been in power for a long time but lost to the opposition. This has been a trend in other African countries like South Africa, Zambia, and Malawi where opposition parties have won. In Mozambique, there has been violence after the elections. ZANU PF supported the BDP in Botswana but Maimane thinks they could lose next. President Mnangagwa congratulated the winners in Mozambique but was slow to do so in Botswana.

Mmusi Maimane Says "ZANU PF Is Next" After BDP's Defeat In Botswana

South African opposition politician Mmusi Maimane has urged former CCC leader Nelson Chamisa to “get his house in order” before aspiring to win Zimbabwe’s elections slated for 2028.
Maimane’s comments came in response to Chamisa’s post on X, where he quoted a verse from the book of Ecclesiastes.
The verse, Ecclesiastes 9:11, reflects on the unpredictable nature of life, highlighting that success is not solely determined by strength, wisdom, or skill; rather, chance and timing also play crucial roles.
Maimane, who is a member of the South African Parliament and the leader of Build One South Africa (BOSA), reminded Chamisa that merely sharing Bible verses is insufficient without a concrete strategy to secure electoral victory. He wrote:
<blockquote>
We need you to get your house in order and properly prepare for 2028. It’s not easy to remove a dominant party and it requires a strong Nehemiah strategy. Faith with one hand and action with the other.
We cannot have one family running a whole country. Zimbabwe is not a Mnangagwa franchise.
</blockquote>
This follows ZANU PF’s push for a constitutional amendment that would extend President Mnangagwa’s current term from five years to seven, from 2028 to 2030.
One of the key resolutions from the recent ZANU PF 21st National People’s Conference held last week was to extend Mnangagwa’s term of office. The party said:
<blockquote>
The President and First Secretary of ZANU PF Party, His Excellency, Cde. Dr E. D. Mnangagwa’s term of office as President of the Republic of Zimbabwe and First Secretary of ZANU PF be extended beyond 2028 to 2030.
The Party and Government should, therefore, set in motion the necessary amendments to the National Constitution so as to give effect to this resolution.
</blockquote>
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Mmusi Maimane tells Nelson Chamisa to stop just posting Bible verses if he wants to win elections in Zimbabwe in 2028. He says Chamisa needs a strong plan and strategy. South Africa's Build One South Africa leader warns that it's not easy to beat the ruling party without a solid plan. ZANU PF wants to extend President Mnangagwa's term until 2030. Chamisa needs to be more than just faith, he needs to take action too.

Maimane Warns Chamisa: Posting Bible Verses Won't Win Elections

South African Member of Parliament and opposition politician Mmusi Maimane has urged Pretoria to cut off diplomatic relations with Zimbabwe following President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration’s crackdown on pro-democracy activists ahead of the 44th SADC Summit scheduled for August 17, 2024.
During the summit, Mnangagwa is set to take over the rotational chairmanship of the regional bloc.
Among those arrested are opposition figures Jacob Ngarivhume and Samuel Gwenzi, trade unionist Robson Chere, and human rights defender Namatai Kwekweza.
These arrests have drawn condemnation from opposition parties, local and international political observers, as well as churches.
Build One South Africa (BOSA) leader Mmusi Maimane called on South Africa to cut diplomatic ties with the ZANU PF-led government, stating that failure to do so would be akin to enabling “an evil regime that kills and destroys”. Said Maimane:
<blockquote>
I have always maintained that South Africa should cut diplomatic ties with the dictatorship in Zimbabwe.
We must play no part in enabling evil and make no mistake the Mnangagwa regime is evil. They lie, kill and destroy.
The abuse of political rights and the arrests of activists over the last few days is more justification of that position.
How can we claim to care about human rights on the global stage while ignoring the most blatant abuse of rights that has derailed the SADC region?
What Emmerson Mnangagwa and Robert Mugabe have done over 44 years is one of the greatest atrocities of history.
We must not diminish this oppression because it is happening to black bodies.
</blockquote>
South Africa’s second-largest political party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), last week called on the SADC to move the 44th SADC Summit from Zimbabwe to another country.
In contrast, the African National Congress (ANC) spokesperson, Zuko Godlimpi, said that if there are issues in Zimbabwe that need to be discussed, they will be addressed during the summit in Harare. Said Godlimpi:
<blockquote>
On the issue of the Zimbabwean situation, we have noted some reports that some political parties in South Africa suggest that should lead to the rescheduling of the SADC Summit that is going to be held in Harare.
The ANC does not agree with that stance. If there are issues arising in Zimbabwe that require the intervention of the SADC community it will have to happen, including as the part of the summit itself.
South Africa has never been in a position where we ought to run away from areas of conflict and say our best way of engaging in solving conflict is to pull away.
If South Africa has to go there to help in any situation or if there are concerns about political violence, we will do it in Zimbabwe and now away.
</blockquote>
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Mmusi Maimane, a politician in South Africa, wants to cut ties with Zimbabwe because their government is arresting people who want democracy. Other politicians and groups are also speaking out against the arrests. Some people think the SADC Summit should not be held in Zimbabwe, while others say they should talk about the issues there. Maimane believes Zimbabwe has done bad things for 44 years and South Africa should not support them. It's important to stand up for human rights and not ignore the abuse happening in Zimbabwe.

Maimane Calls On South Africa To Cut Diplomatic Ties with Zimbabwe

South African opposition politician Mmusi Maimane has criticised the African National Congress (ANC) for inviting Zimbabwe’s ZANU PF to campaign on its behalf ahead of the 29 May national and provincial elections.
ANC’s first deputy secretary-general, Nomvulo Mokonyane recently announced that South Africa’s ruling party had invited its Zimbabwean counterpart, ZANU PF, to campaign on its behalf, and participate as an observer mission during the elections.
Moreover, a recent report by <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/anc-invites-zanu-pf-for-mop-up-rally/">The Herald</a> claimed ZANU PF Secretary General Obert Mpofu said his party will not rule out sending teams to South Africa to assist the ANC. 
However, Maimane, who leads Build One South Africa (BOSA), said ZANU PF has a track record of rigging elections, something the ANC should not seek to emulate or support. Said Maimane (via <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/why-involve-zanu-pf-rigging-masters-fumes-sa-opposition-as-anc-invites-zim-ruling-elite-to-help-mobilise-voters/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>):
<blockquote>
It is now widely accepted that ZANU PF rigs elections in Zimbabwe to favour itself and to continue its misrule of the country.
ZANU PF has used fear, intimidation, violence and suppression of and against the people of Zimbabwe.
It has presided over an autocratic, authoritarian and repressive regime, trampling on the democratic rights of Zimbabweans.
Unsurprisingly, the ANC is a bedfellow of ZANU PF, considering it too is desperate to cling to power at any cost.
We reject this with the contempt it deserves and wish to tell ZANU PF they are not welcome in South Africa…
If ZANU PF continues to influence the ANC we will no longer have free and fair elections. They will learn bad tricks from ZANU PF. They do not even know how to count votes.
</blockquote>
South Africa will hold elections on 29 May 2024, with nearly 28 million registered voters set to elect representatives to the national and provincial parliaments.
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SA's Mmusi Maimane Criticises ANC For Inviting ZANU PF To Help Campaign

Build One South Africa (BOSA) movement leader Mmusi Maimane has urged South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, not to attend the inauguration and swearing-in ceremony of Zimbabwean President-elect, Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Mnangagwa is set to be sworn in as Zimbabwe’s leader for a second and final term on 04 September at the National Sports Stadium in Harare.
In a letter addressed to heads of State, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Ministry permanent secretary James Manzou said Mnagangwa’s official inauguration will take place on Monday.
However, Maimane, who is a vocal critic of Zimbabwe’s ZANU PF party, said that by attending, Ramaphosa would be undermining the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) on the Zimbabwe elections.
In a post on Twitter, now X, Maimane warned that by attending Mnangagwa’s swearing-in ceremony, Ramaphosa would be prolonging the “crisis” in Zimbabwe. He wrote:
<blockquote>
Do not attend this inauguration @CyrilRamaphosa do not undermine SADC and do not extend the crisis in Zimbabwe which is affecting South Africa.
</blockquote>
In a previous statement, SADC’s Electoral Observer Mission (SEOM) said that the manner in which the Harmonised Elections were conducted “fell short of the requirements of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, the Electoral Act, and the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections…”
Ramaphosa’s office has yet to officially reveal whether he will be attending or not.
However, in a previous statement, Ramaphosa congratulated the people of Zimbabwe for holding peaceful elections.
He also said he noted the concerns raised by international observers missions and those from the AU and SADC.
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Maimane Urges Ramaphosa Not To "Undermine" SADC By Attending ED Inauguration

Mmusi Maimane, the leader of Build One South Africa, a South African opposition party, has called for political and electoral reforms in Zimbabwe to democratise the country and ensure that the upcoming general elections are credible.
Responding to a ruling by the Pretoria High Court on the termination of Zimbabwe Exemption Permits (ZEPs), Maimane said South Africa has a role to defend democracy in Zimbabwe.
Maimane said the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission should make the voters’ roll digitally accessible to the public and also the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) must pledge not to be involved in elections.
He said the public broadcaster, the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) should give full access to opposition parties. <a href="https://twitter.com/MmusiMaimane/status/1674298480804655105?s=20">Said Maimane</a>:
<blockquote>
The voters’ roll must be made public and digitally accessible.
The ZEC must be audited by international Election Commissions because they are not independent and observing best practice for elections.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Political prisoners like Job Sikhala must be released.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Legislation against free speech must be withdrawn.</blockquote>
<blockquote>The army must pledge not to be involved in elections. They must stay in the barracks.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Full permission for political rallies and meetings.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Full access to the state broadcaster for opposition parties. Unrestricted access for international observers and for international media.</blockquote>
He hit back at critics who accused him of interfering in Zimbabwe’s internal affairs in violation of the principle of national sovereignty, saying:
<blockquote>
We must not allow a dictatorship to weaponise the principle of sovereignty.
It is about the sovereignty of a people to choose their leaders and the direction of their nation.
As a democratic nation, we cannot support the hijacking of a people by gunpoint. Which is what ZANU did.
</blockquote>
The Pretoria High Court ruled that the termination of ZEP Permits, which were due to expire today, 30 June, was unconstitutional.
The South African Government had already given ZEP holders a further six months to regularise their stay or face deportation.
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SA Opposition Leader Calls For Political And Electoral Reforms In Zimbabwe

Opposition CCC leader Nelson Chamisa has urged young people to participate in politics to bring about change in Zimbabwe as has happened in several Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries over the past two years.
Chamisa has expressed optimism that the opposition will win next year’s elections if young people register to vote and vote in large numbers in next year’s general elections.
This comes after opposition parties won elections in Zambia, Malawi and most recently Lesotho. Said Chamisa:
<blockquote>
Congratulations to the great people of #Lesotho for choosing the new, choosing hope over familiarity. Malawi did it. Zambia did it. Lesotho has done it. Nigeria will do it. We’re next. Zimbabwe we will do it! Young people shall save Africa. Play your part. Bring the change. Serve and save our Zimbabwe. Get involved. One is more. Your voice matters. Your vote counts.
</blockquote>
South African opposition leader Mmusi Maimane, the founder of the One South Africa Movement, concurred with Chamisa. He said:
<blockquote>
There is a wind of democratic change in southern Africa. First, it was Malawi, then it was Zambia, and now a brand new party in Lesotho has shaken the country.
Next year it will be Zimbabwe gaining its second independence. Then in 2024, we the people of SA will remove the African National Congress.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe and Nigeria are scheduled to hold general elections next year while South Africa will conduct elections in 2024.

Opposition Wins Elections In Lesotho, Chamisa Says Zimbabwe Is Next

One South Africa Movement (OSAM) coordinator, Mmusi Maimane, said Southern African countries affected by an influx of Zimbabwean migrants should push Harare for a free and fair election in 2023.
Millions of Zimbabweans have migrated to South Africa, Namibia, Zambia and Botswana among other regional countries, over the past two decades in search of better economic prospects, thereby straining social services in the receiving countries.
In a post on Twitter, Maimane described Zimbabwe’s ruling party, ZANU PF, as regional cancer which must fall. He said:
<blockquote>
The solution to the Zimbabwean/ South African immigration crisis involves us advocating for free and fair elections in 2023. The CCC led by Chamisa won 19/28 seats in the by-elections.
Without rigging and violence, @edmnangagwa has no chance. Next year Zimbabwe will be free.
We cannot be more involved in Cuba and in Ukraine matters than we are in issues that affect us.
The oppression in Zimbabwe directly affects SA. We pay the cost in health facilities being strained, in labour disputes and it has sown seeds of animosity. That is why it must fall.
ZANU PF is the regional cancer draining South Africa, Namibia and Botswana. It’s costing us.
We cure cancer by removing the tumour. By going through chemotherapy.
Panado does not cure cancer. Some people are chasing cosmetic solutions. I am going directly for the cancer.
</blockquote>
Responding to Maimane, one Muse indicated that despite CCC winning 19 seats, ZANU PF had actually won two seats previously held by the opposition while retaining all the seats it held before. <a href="https://twitter.com/musekiw69974119/status/1508460126629412873">Wrote Muse:</a>
<blockquote>
Mmusi open up your eyes, CCC candidates returned the same seats they were occupying before recalls, if you check properly Zanu PF managed to gain two constituents previously occupied by MDC/CCC whatever so, in reality, Zanu PF now have two more extra seats.
</blockquote>
Malume Pfene concurred with Maimane and urged the opposition leader not to be like former South African president Thabo Mbeki who allegedly condoned electoral fraud. <a href="https://twitter.com/KSimemeza/status/1508523154083393539">Said Pfene:</a>
<blockquote>
I totally agree. Zimbabweans had no history of crossing the Limpopo until ZANU PF ruined the country.
All we need from SA and SADC is support during and after elections. We are capable of running our own affairs. Don’t condone election theft like Mbeki.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h4>

ZANU PF A Regional Cancer That Must Fall - Maimane

The provincial secretary of the National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (Nehawu) in the Western Cape, Baxolise Mali says heads must roll following a disastrous fire that broke out in parliament in Cape Town on Sunday morning. 
Mali said security guards were not on duty when the fire broke out due to a cost-cutting directive they received at the beginning of December.  Mali said:
<blockquote>
They stopped protection services (security) from coming in on weekends because they said parliament doesn’t have money, so they would not be able to pay them for overtime.
Now the leadership and management of parliament must take responsibility for this sabotage. If protection services were on duty, the damage would have not been this extensive.
The problem with the police is that they are only stationed outside the building and they are hardly inside, so it wouldn’t be easy for them to detect the fire.
</blockquote>
Mali also raised the issue of the alleged failure of fire alarms to go off when the blaze started. He said:
<blockquote>
That simply shows you that the occupational health and safety standards are non-existent in that building. We’ve been fighting a lot about compliance issues in that building, including the issue of security. There are a lot of break-ins in the building.
</blockquote>
Former Democratic Alliance (DA) leader, Mmusi Maimane who now leads OneSA expressed concern over the development. He said:
<blockquote>
I am alarmed that protection service nightshift workers were removed.
I am listening to the Nehawu representative speaking to the @SABCNews. #ParliamentFire
It seems that many health and safety and compliance protocols were not followed. This has really cost us as a nation.
</blockquote>
An external auditing firm, BDO early this year made recommendations on how to make the building safer after a fire at parliament in March last year but Parliament was yet to implement the recommendations, according to Mali. 
More: <a href="https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/news/2022-01-02-parliament-security-guards-were-not-on-duty-when-fire-broke-out-because-of-cost-cutting-says-union/?utm_medium=Social&amp;utm_source=Twitter#Echobox=1641126938-1">TimesLIVE</a>

South Africa: Parliament Security Was Off Duty When Fire Broke

Former DA leader Mmusi Maimane has urged the US President-elect Joe Biden to not welcome President Mnangagwa’s overtures as he said President Mnangagwa is a dictator who was part of the corrupt system that led Zimbabwe for the past 41 years.
Maimane was responding to President Mnangagwa’s<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/01/07/after-yesterdays-events-the-us-has-no-moral-grounds-to-punish-another-nation-under-the-guise-of-upholding-democracy-ed/"> message congratulating Joe Biden</a> and taking a Jab at Uncle Sam (the US) when he said:
<blockquote>
<div class="css-1dbjc4n">
<div class="css-1dbjc4n r-156q2ks">
<div class="css-901oao r-1fmj7o5 r-1qd0xha r-1blvdjr r-16dba41 r-ad9z0x r-bcqeeo r-bnwqim r-qvutc0" dir="auto" id="tweet-text" lang="en">Dear<a class="css-4rbku5 css-18t94o4 css-901oao css-16my406 r-1n1174f r-1loqt21 r-1qd0xha r-ad9z0x r-bcqeeo r-qvutc0" data-focusable="true" dir="ltr" href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden" role="link">@JoeBiden </a>and <a class="css-4rbku5 css-18t94o4 css-901oao css-16my406 r-1n1174f r-1loqt21 r-1qd0xha r-ad9z0x r-bcqeeo r-qvutc0" data-focusable="true" dir="ltr" href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris" role="link">@KamalaHarris </a>this man Emmerson Mnangagwa is a brutal dictator. He has been part of the corrupt oppressive machinery of Zimbabwe for 41 years. He is a fundamental obstacle to the freedom of its people and no overtures from him should be welcomed.</div>
</div>
</div>
</blockquote>
<div dir="auto" lang="en">The firebrand politician has been vocal about Zimbabwe’s political and economic mishaps in 2020 he urged <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/09/21/change-your-name-to-change-alliance-mmusi-maimane-to-nelson-chamisa/">Nelson Chamisa to change the name</a> of the party after the Supreme Court ruled against the Nelson Chamisa camp and told him to keep fighting the ruling party.
Source: <a href="https://twitter.com/MmusiMaimane/status/1347242963970256899">Mmusi Maimane Twitter </a></div>

No Ovetures From ED Should Be Welcomed, He is A Dictator - Maimane To Biden

The former president of South African opposition Democratic Alliance, Mmusi Maimane, has requested a meeting with Zimbabwe’s Consulate in Cape Town with regards to reports of human rights violation on Zimbabwe.
Below is Maimane’s letter to the Consulate in which he requests for the meeting.
<blockquote>In light of disturbing reports of violence, intimidation, torture and detention without trial being carried out by the Zimbabwean government against citizens, opposition voices and journalists, I write to you to request a formal meeting tomorrow morning, Friday 07 August 2020, at 10h00.
The purpose of this meeting is to register our concerns over these reports, to seek an explanation from your government, and to seek an assurance that the matter will be dealt with in an urgent manner. 
I look forward to your response.
Yours Faithfully,
Mmusi Maimane</blockquote>
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EevFmUFWsAAtXwk?format=jpg&amp;name=small"/>

Former DA President Maimane Requests Meeting With Zimbabwean Officials Over Human Rights Violations

Former DA leader and One South Africa Movement Chief Activists Mmusi Maimane have written to the South Africa International Relations Minister Naledi Pandor asking the latter to formally ask the Zimbabwean ambassador to South Africa David Hamadziripi to explain the human right abuses happening in Zimbabwe. Maimane said South Africa could not turn a blind eye to the plights of Zimbabwe as the AU leader of the moment.
Read Mmusi’s full letter to Pandor below:
<blockquote>Hon. Naledi Pandor
Minister of International Relations S. Cooperation OR Tombo Building, 460 Soutpansberg Rd. Rietondale. Pretoria
04 August 2020
HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES IN ZIMBABWE: ONE SA URGES MINISTER PANDOR TO ISSUE A PEMARCHE ON ZIMBABWEAN AMBASSADOR DAVID HAMADZIRIPI
Dear Minister Pandor
I write to strongly urging that a demarche be Issued on Zimbabwean Ambassador David Hamadziripi by the South African government in fight of the flagrant human rights abuses by the ZANU-PF led government in Zimbabwe.
The purpose of issuing a demarche is to demand a full explanation from the ambassador os to the unfolding human rights crisis in Zimbabwe and o commitment to ending these atrocities at once. Disturbing reports of violence, intimidation. torture and detention without trial being carried out by the Zimbabwean government against citizens, opposition voices and journaists cannot go unchallenged. 
Following Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s national address today, in which he sought to blame “western powers” for the country’s current woes. the people are Zimbabwe are left in fear and without answers.
As a leader in the SADC region. South Africa cannot turn a bind eye to such atrocities. Quiet diplomacy allows injustices to continue unabated. Now is the time for South Africa to regain its moral voice on the continent and denounce such actions perpetrated by the Zimbabwean government. 
Until this point. current African Union (AU) chairperson. Cyril Ramaphosa has foiled in implementing the AU’s mandate “to promote and protect human rights on the continent” as per Article 3(h) of the Constitutive Act of the African Union. As DIRCO Minister. I implore you to act decisively on behalf of the South African government and issue a demarche at once.
South Africa must champion and protect democrocy in the region and on the continent. The actions of the Mnangagwa government are that of a liberation movement that continues to oppress its people. 
There is no time for ambiguity. The South African government must speak out and condemn the violent, inhumane and undemocratic actions of the ZANU•PF government in Zimbabwe and demand an end to such conduct.
I look forward to your response. 
Yours Faithfully
Mmusi Maimane
Chief Activist: One South Africa Movement</blockquote>

FULL TEXT: Mmusi Maimane Asks The South African Minister Of International Relations To Get An Explanation From The Zim Govt About Human Rights Abuses

<blockquote>Thursday, 31 January 2019
His Excellency, E.D. Mnangagwa
President of Zimbabwe
Office of the President
Samora Michel Ave, Harare, Zimbabwe
REQUEST FOR A FORMAL MEETING IN HARARE NEXT WEEK
Dear President Mnangagwa,
I have taken note of the statement issued on 29 January by your Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, the Honourable Monica Mutsvangwa.
As chairperson of the Southern African Partnership for Democratic Change, which represents opposition parties from the SADC region, I have a duty to speak up on behalf of our member parties and to speak out against any injustice in the region. The disturbing reports of beatings, arrests and other threats to hard-won democratic freedoms in Zimbabwe compels me to act.
The stability of Zimbabwe is critical to the stability of our region. The protection of democratic rights in Zimbabwe is critical to the advancement of democracy throughout the region. But more importantly, the safety and wellbeing of the people of Zimbabwe matter deeply to all of us, because we are one people here in Southern Africa. They are our brothers and sisters.
In the light of the fast deteriorating situation in Zimbabwe, I intend to head up a SAPDC fact-finding mission there as soon as possible, which would include a meeting with your government. Please indicate a date and time next week which best suits your schedule.
Our fundamental interest is to uphold and protect the principles of democracy in the region. The violence against civilians, the shut-down of the Internet and the detention of activists and opponents are thoroughly undemocratic acts. We cannot stand by and watch as Zimbabwean citizens are subjected to these abuses and killings.
In the absence of any meaningful intervention by either my own government or regional African bodies such as SADC and the AU, I have no choice but to intervene in an effort to help find a peaceful resolution.
We want to see Zimbabwe restored to calm and stability, and to see her people safe from violence and intimidation. We want to see a free Zimbabwean press, and we want to see your streets free from soldiers and guns. We want to see the return of all the individual rights enshrined in your Constitution.
I trust that you will see the value in such engagement with your government and that you will honour your minister’s commitment to meet with anyone seeking a solution to this crisis, as expressed in her statement.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Mmusi 
Yours sincerely,
Mmusi Maimane MP
The leader of the Official Opposition in South Africa
Chairperson of the Southern African Partnership for Democratic Change</blockquote>

FULL TEXT: SA's Leader Of The Opposition, Mmusi Maimane's Letter To Mnangagwa

<blockquote>
<h4>PRESS STATEMENT ON THE UTTERANCES BY SOUTH AFRICA’S DEMOCRATIC ALLIANCE LEADER, MMUSI MAIMANE</h4>
The government has taken note of the rather unfortunate and ill-informed position taken by South Africa’s Democratic Alliance (DA) leader, Mmusi Maimane, on the violent disturbances that were orchestrated by the MDC Alliance, in concert with civil society organisations in the country.
It is regrettable that Mr Maimane has assumed an aggressive posture for the galley, when the Government of Zimbabwe has an open door policy to citizens, and the international community alike under the auspices of the mantra, “Zimbabwe is Open for Business and Dialogue.”
It is disappointing that Mr Maimane under the auspices of the DA and a coalition of opposition parties in Southern Africa, the Southern African Partnership for Democratic Change (SAPDC), has escalated his aggressive posturing to the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the United Nations Human Rights Council. Assuming that he has legitimate issues (of which he has none), one would have expected him to defer to the SADC or the AU.
Zimbabwe has strong democratic institutions that were brought about by the new Constitution in 2013 that are capable of dealing with any issues. The Government of Zimbabwe is committed to providing safety and protection to all its citizens for them to fully enjoy the full spectrum of the rights enshrined in our extended bill of rights. However, lawlessness which infringes the rights of other citizens such as looting, wanton violence, arson and attacks on law enforcement agencies will be dealt with to the full extent of the law.
It is thus unfortunate that the domestic issues of Zimbabwe have been appropriated by a South African opposition party, which has regrettably taken a position without engaging the Zimbabwean authorities. The Zimbabwe Government will engage with anyone, including those who believe in questionable supremacist politics, that Zimbabwe fought against during the liberation struggle, and equally so, South Africans fought against Apartheid.
Honourable Monica Mutsvangwa
Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services
 </blockquote>

FULL TEXT: Govt Responds To DA Leader Mmusi Maimane's Call For ICC, UN Intervention, Denounces His 'Questionable Supremacist Politics'

Democratic Alliance (DA) leader Mmusi Maimane says his party’s immigration plan involves securing South Africa’s borders.
Maimane launched the party’s registration elections poster in Soweto. He said South Africa has to secure its borders to protect the rights of its citizens. Said Maimane:
<blockquote>For a country to work, you need to always ensure there’s rule of law. Everybody has to be registered. All we’re asking for is that we secure our borders so the rights of the citizens are protected….in all communities.</blockquote>
South Africa has become a place of refuge for Zimbabweans seeking employment opportunities. Last year, over 180,000 Zimbabwean nationals living in South Africa applied for official documentation to allow them to stay, work, study and conduct businesses legally in the country. Figures from South Africa’s 2011 Census show that there are about 1.7 million “non-South African citizens” living in South Africa. This number includes figures from other countries and not Zimbabwe alone.
More:  <a href="https://www.enca.com/news/maimane-wants-sa-secure-its-borders?utm_term=Autofeed&amp;utm_medium=Social&amp;utm_source=Twitter#Echobox=1546528898">ENCA</a>

SA Opposition Leader Wants South Africa To Secure Its Borders

Democratic Alliance leader Mmusi Maimane has issued a mesage of support to Zimbabweans urging them to usher in the change that ensures Zimbabwe becomes a prosperous nation. Watch the full video below:
<div class="wp-video" style="width: 640px;">
<video class="wp-video-shortcode" controls="controls" height="362" id="video-56654-1" preload="metadata" width="640"><source src="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/ogsxiMm4IRGwfHYs.mp4?_=1" type="video/mp4"/><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/ogsxiMm4IRGwfHYs.mp4">https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/ogsxiMm4IRGwfHYs.mp4</a></video></div>

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