Ghana’s former President John Mahama is leading a Commonwealth group to observe Zimbabwe’s general elections on July 30.
The Commonwealth Secretariat says Mr. Mahama will lead other eminent persons from across the regions of Commonwealth.
The secretariat, in a statement said the observation group’s report on the election would contribute to the Commonwealth Secretary-General’s informal assessment of whether Zimbabwe should be readmitted.
Zimbabwe under former President, Robert Mugabe withdrew from the commonwealth.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa after assuming power wrote to request a re-admission. Mnangagwa requested the Commonwealth to observe its forthcoming elections.
The statement from the commonwealth secretariat said its Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland is “extremely pleased to be deploying a group to observe the elections.
“Its report on the electoral process will give member countries a clear view of adherence to Commonwealth values in Zimbabwe, including democracy and rule of law plus protection of human rights such as freedom of expression.
“Our heads of government have said twice, in 2009 and 2011 that they look forward to Zimbabwe’s return.
“I very much hope that the forthcoming election proves that the conditions are right’’.
The former Ghanaian president previously led the Commonwealth teams observing elections in Sierra Leone and Kenya.
Zimbabwe Elections
Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa and rival Nelson Chamisa seem ready to do battle in July’s poll.
Considered the biggest and crucial election in Zimbabwe’s political history, the two rivals will be seeking the mandate to re-galvanize the country.
The elections are coming months after the former President, Robert Mugabe exited power after a military takeover.
The younger generation who have known Mugabe all their lives are demanding a new era. They will be crucial in deciding who wins.
Source: Africafeeds.com
