South Africa’s Democratic Alliance (DA) has hit back at reports suggesting that Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube could lose her job amid growing tensions over the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act.
On Sunday, newspaper reports suggested that President Cyril Ramaphosa is under intense pressure from within his African National Congress (ANC) to fire Gwarube who – in accordance with her party position – is openly opposed to the implementation of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act.
In a statement, DA leader John Steenhuisen insisted that firing Gwarube or any other DA minister “for doing their jobs” would not be tolerated. He said:
<blockquote>
Doing so would signal an end to the Government of National Unity (GNU).
</blockquote>
Steenhuisen also addressed misinformation surrounding the consultation process, which has been ongoing since Ramaphosa signed the BELA Act into law nearly three months ago. He said:
<blockquote>
These consultations are ongoing through the clearing house mechanism within the GNU. During this time, the minister has met with members from Solidarity, and the Presidency, at NEDLAC (National Economic Development and Labour Council) after a dispute was lodged by the union.
This process is entirely separate from the consultation process, and conflating the two is misleading, and factually incorrect. This was a mandatory process, in terms of the law, to prevent strike action arising out of the dispute. The outcome of this engagement was a settlement, signed by the Minister of Basic Education, the Presidency, and the union.
The fact that the Presidency has now distanced itself from this legislated process, which they were party to, is as disgraceful, as it is confusing.
As leader of the DA, I would like to make this point loud and clear. We support the process followed by the minister, as she was fulfilling her legally obligated responsibilities, and respect the outcome of the negotiations at NEDLAC.
We have been clear since the outset. We are in government to bring about positive change, including inclusive economic growth, and jobs, and at all times we are guided by the rule of law and the Constitution of South Africa. Anything to the contrary will not be tolerated.
</blockquote>
Although the Act was passed by Parliament on October 26, 2023, and assented to in September, the implementation of sections 4 and 5 has been delayed for three months to facilitate multi-party discussions and the development of proposals aimed at resolving the ongoing disputes.
Clause 4 gives the Basic Education Department the authority to instruct schools to enrol more pupils if there is a surplus in some schools. This aims to address imbalances in school admissions.
This clause allows provincial departments to amend schools’ mother-tongue education policies only if the community around the school does not speak that language. This is intended to ensure that language policies are more inclusive and reflective of the local community.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) opposes Clauses 4 and 5 of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act for several reasons.
The DA believes these clauses give the state too much control over school admissions, potentially undermining the autonomy of School Governing Bodies (SGBs) and leading to a loss of local decision-making power.
Clause 5, which allows provincial departments to amend schools’ mother-tongue education policies, is seen by the DA as a threat to the preservation of mother-tongue education. They argue that this could lead to the marginalisation of certain languages and cultures.
The DA, along with other stakeholders like trade union Solidarity and NEDLAC, has called for these clauses to be excluded from the BELA Act to maintain peace and stability in schools.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

The DA warned President Ramaphosa not to fire Minister Gwarube for opposing a law. The law is causing tension in education. The DA supports the minister's actions and negotiations. The law allows the government to control school admissions and language policies. The DA thinks this takes away power from schools. They want the controversial parts of the law removed to keep peace in schools. The President must follow the rule of law and the Constitution.

DA Warns Ramaphosa That Firing Siviwe Gwarube Would Break GNU

A recent poll by the Institute for Race Relations (IRR) reveals that political parties within South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU) have seen increased support since the general election on May 29, 2024, reported <a href="https://www.news24.com/citypress/politics/gnu-partners-thrive-as-da-and-anc-gain-support-eff-mkp-decline-new-poll-shows-20241112">City Press</a>.
Partners such as the ANC, DA, IFP, Patriotic Alliance, and Freedom Front Plus have all experienced growth in support, according to the poll.
In contrast, opposition parties like Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) and Julius Malema’s EFF have seen a decline in support. The MKP dropped from 15% to 12%, and the EFF from 10% to 7%.
The IRR poll was conducted in September and October 2024, via telephone with 604 registered, demographically representative voters. The margin of error is 5%.
A majority of 52% of respondents expressed a preference for a GNU with the DA and IFP as the ANC’s main partners. Only 27% preferred a coalition with MKP and the EFF.
Two-thirds (66%) of respondents believe that the GNU will complete its full five-year term, lasting until the next general election in 2029.
A large majority (83%) of respondents prioritized job creation over further distribution of social grants. This aligns with the ANC’s election campaign, which focused on income grants.
53% of respondents agreed that appointments should be based on merit, with special training for previously disadvantaged groups.
A smaller proportion (23%) felt appointments should be strictly merit-based, while 20% supported prioritizing black people in appointments.
According to Hermann Pretorius, head of strategic communications at the IRR, the growth in support for GNU partners reflects a cautiously optimistic voter sentiment toward the coalition government. He said:
<blockquote>
Before the elections, the DA was afraid that a quarter of its voters would leave if they worked with the ANC, but this poll shows that this quarter of DA voters is willing to give cooperation with the ANC a chance. ANC voters also give their party the benefit of the doubt regarding the GNU.
</blockquote>
Pretorius suggests that the growth in support for smaller parties within the Government of National Unity (GNU) indicates that being seen as a “constructive political player” is key to sustainable political relevance.
He warns that polling data on job creation and Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) sends a clear message to the ANC: it must focus on pragmatic, bread-and-butter issues.
He believes the ANC could regain voter support by returning to its more pragmatic policies of the late 1990s and early 2000s when it prioritised economic growth and job creation.
Pretorius attributes the EFF’s decline in support to Jacob Zuma’s return to politics, which has overshadowed Julius Malema’s image as the champion of the oppressed.
He also criticizes Malema’s decision to dismiss top EFF officials over a public relations failure, including their inability to fill buses for the EFF’s birthday event in Soweto.
Pretorius blames the decline in support for Jacob Zuma’s MKP on the party’s erratic leadership changes, particularly the appointment and dismissal of leaders under Zuma’s influence.
However, he notes that the party is starting to build its structures, though Zuma’s personal influence remains a significant factor in its support.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A recent poll shows that South Africa's Government of National Unity (GNU) partners, like the ANC and DA, are getting more support, while opposition parties like EFF and MKP are losing popularity. Most people want a GNU with DA and IFP as the main partners. People care more about job creation than social grants. The ANC could get more support by focusing on creating jobs and economic growth. The EFF's support is dropping because of Jacob Zuma's return to politics. MKP is losing support because of leadership issues. Overall, people want parties that focus on important issues and work together.

South Africa's GNU Partners Thrive As Support For EFF, MKP Decline - New Poll Shows

Zimbabwe’s civil servants are longing for the salaries they earned during the Government of National Unity (GNU) era when they took home monthly paychecks of US$540.
Mbekezeli Dube, a 36-year-old Zimbabwe Prison and Correctional Service (ZPCS) officer (not his real name), lamented that the so-called “Second Republic” under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration, which was ushered in by the November 2017 military coup, has reduced civil servants to a state of destitution.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200029246/civil-servants-long-for-gnu-days-as-govt-workers-face-new-realities">NewsDay</a>, Dube who was 24 years old when he joined the ZPCS, said during the GNU era, civil servants lived a comfortable life but now they are struggling to make ends meet. He said:
<blockquote>
The second republic has made us earn US$35 a month. Civil servants are struggling, personally I no longer love myself…
I joined the ZPCS not because I wanted to, but because I realised that a school dropout was making a significant living out of the US$540 that they earned.
During the Government of National Unity [GNU], ordinary folks managed to build their own houses and buy their first cars.
Government workers were earning around US$500 and retiring civil servants took not less than US$20 000 as lump sum money and minimum monthly pensions of around US$300.
But now [Finance Minister] Mthuli Ncube has reduced us to destitute. Gender-based violence will never stop when a father, who is a civil servant, gets a US$190 monthly salary to pay fees, buy food and pay rent, among other expenses.
On retirement after 40 years of service, they are given a US$300 lump sum pension contribution. Mthuli Ncube gives us his lunch money as a pension. Every month, we are backdated with deductions.
</blockquote>
In an interview with NewsDay, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister July Moyo stated that the government can only afford to pay civil servants what it is currently capable of. Said Moyo:
<blockquote>
The government can only give what it can afford as the GDP [gross domestic product] of this country tells us what we can pay the civil servant.
The civil servants in this country are [in the] middle income [bracket], I know the salaries and wages of the civil servants.
Civil servants are at a higher level as compared to the private sector and earn more than those in the private sector.
There is a national joint negotiating council which negotiates for many things apart from salaries. They have a timetable for how they negotiate.
Just like the turnover of any company can tell you what they can afford to pay workers.
</blockquote>
However, Tendai Biti, who served as Finance Minister during the GNU era, expressed sympathy for the plight of civil servants.
Biti blamed the current Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Permanent Secretary, George Guvamatanga, for the civil servants’ dire situation. He said:
<blockquote>
I am sorry to say this, civil servants may wish to go back to US$540 salaries, but with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government, it is impossible. A mosquito will never kill malaria, never.
</blockquote>
A general duty soldier in the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA), Mengezi Dliwayo (not his real name), told NewsDay that the salary he is currently earning is not what he had signed up for. He said:
<blockquote>
Awa ndiwo ma funnies [These are jokes]. I get paid ZiG$1 300 and US$190 as a monthly salary. I have to pay rent and other bills.
This is why we have many ex-soldiers who quit and join armed robbers. The biggest problem is we cannot speak out, especially the uniformed forces like police, ZPCS and army. I honestly miss that US$540 salary which we used to get.
</blockquote>
In an interview with NewsDay, former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa said that the economic challenges facing civil servants and all other Zimbabwean citizens stemmed from the ongoing political crisis in the country. Said Chamisa:
<blockquote>
The broken politics in this country breaks everything and the broken economy is a product of broken politics.
It does not help to run away from the choice of the people, a political settlement is needed. Look at what happened in South Africa, they respected the choices of the voters who expressed the need for leaders to join hands and work together.
</blockquote>
The GNU was a power-sharing arrangement that was formed on February 13, 2009, and lasted until July 2013.
The parties that comprised the GNU were ZANU-PF, then led by the late Robert Mugabe who served as the President, MDC-T led by the late Morgan Tsvangirai who held the position of Prime Minister, and the MDC led by Arthur Mutambara who was the Deputy Prime Minister.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe's Civil Servants Yearn For Return To GNU Era Salaries

South Africa’s newly-appointed Correctional Services Minister, Pieter Groenewald, said that he will push for prisons to produce some of their own food, which he believes could save millions of taxpayers’ money.
Groenewald, who is the leader of the Freedom Front Plus party, refuted reports claiming he wants to implement hard labour for inmates.
In an interview with broadcaster Newzroom Afrika on Wednesday, Groenewald expressed his view that correctional facilities must start producing their own food again. He said:
<blockquote>
This thing about hard labour and everything is not true. What I said is, we will see how we can save money for the taxpayers of South Africa. I do believe the facilities, correctional facilities must start to produce their own food again.
They have the agricultural land, it is there. There are proposals (and) institutions who want to assist with that.
I will seriously look into that matter so that we can save taxpayers’ money. There is nothing wrong with ensuring that facilities produce their own vegetables and their own food.
</blockquote>
A commentator who supports subjecting inmates to hard labour argues that this approach can also serve as a deterrent to committing crimes. He wrote on X:
<blockquote>
Jail shouldn’t be treated like a hotel, people should be scared to go to jail. Prisons should serve as a deterrent to crime. They are not supposed to be a spa retreat or an all-inclusive holiday.
When people see prison as a place where they will be put to hard labour going to the fields to grow their own food, working and contributing to society, they will think twice before committing a crime.
If nothing else, hard labour gives prisoners a sense of purpose and keeps them busy, which can help rehabilitate them and prepare them for life outside of prison.
</blockquote>
In many countries, prisoners participate in agricultural production, where the goods they cultivate often end up in the supply chains of various consumer products.
Additionally, prison farms frequently use the goods they produce to feed the prisoners and other state wards.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

South Africa’s New Minister Of Prisons Says Inmates Should Produce Own Food

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has said the formation of the second Government of National Unity (GNU) is a significant development in South Africa’s democracy. 
The country’s first GNU was established in 1994 to promote nation-building and inclusivity from a racially divided past during a period of political transition following the end of apartheid.
In a statement on Monday, 24 June, Ramaphosa said the GNU should drive a programme that improves the lives of all South Africa’s people rather than focus on who gets which ministerial position among the parties. He said:
<blockquote>
South Africans made clear with their votes in last month’s elections that they want their elected representatives to put aside narrow interests and work together to build the country.
To do so, the GNU cannot be preoccupied with jockeying for positions, tussles over appointments or squabbles within and between parties.
The success of the GNU will be measured by the extent to which we are prepared to focus not on who will govern, but on how we will govern, together.
</blockquote>
The parties that have signed to join the ANC-led GNU are the Democratic Alliance (DA), the Patriotic Alliance (PA), 
Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), GOOD, Pan Africanist, Congress of Azania (PAC), Vryheidsfront Plus (FF+), 
United Democratic Movement (UDM), Rise Mzansi, and Al Jama-ah.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

GNU Must Put South Africans' Interests First - Ramaphosa

South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA), have reached a deal to form a government of national unity (GNU), the SABC reported on Friday.
The GNU will also include the Patriotic Alliance (PA) and Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) while the DA will get the post of deputy speaker of the National Assembly, according to the report.
According to <a href="https://english.news.cn/africa/20240614/db6ea965bf2c4506a3262df5b30b08f8/c.html">Xinhua</a>, citing the Sunday Times, the current South African president, Cyril Ramaphosa, will be elected with the support of the DA on Friday afternoon.
The parties reportedly struck a deal shortly after 10 AM today, during the first sitting of the National Assembly.
The DA will support Ramaphosa’s election as president, with Agriculture Minister Thoko Didiza as speaker, and the ANC will support the election of a DA deputy speaker.
The DA’s deputy chief whip, Annelie Lotriet, is reportedly set to be elected deputy speaker of the National Assembly, while the ANC’s Mdumiseni Ntuli is touted as the incoming chief whip.
The first sitting of the National Assembly is being held this Friday to elect the speaker, deputy speaker and president for the next five years.
In the 29 May elections, the ANC secured 159 out of 400 seats in the National Assembly, forcing the party to seek partners to form a GNU.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

South Africa's ANC Reaches Deal With Opposition Parties To Form Unity Government

South Africa and ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa’s leadership is now on shaky ground after he reportedly lost his grip on the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).
<a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/politics/just-in-president-cyril-ramaphosa-has-lost-his-grip-on-anc-nec-amid-gnu-talks-with-da-bc907e0a-263f-42c1-9dcd-53d60da0fe16">IOL</a> reported “highly placed sources within the NEC” as saying there has been a significant shift in the balance of power away from Ramaphosa following a move to push through an ANC-DA coalition government.
The ANC’s NEC met last week to discuss its various options for forming a new government.
The ANC-DA coalition was defeated, with the NEC favouring a more measured Government of National Unity (GNU).
However, some ANC officials are reportedly frustrating parties like the EFF and MKP out of any discussions.
The ANC failed to win an outright majority in the 29 May National and Provincial elections and received 40.18% support.
Speaking to IOL, political analyst Professor Sipho Seepe said Ramaphosa failed to deliver and should resign. He said:
<blockquote>
Any leader who has any integrity will not be forced to step down from the position. The election outcomes were disastrous… Ramaphosa is obsessed with the idea of being a president.
</blockquote>
Seepe said if an ANC-DA coalition was pushed through, it could spell the end of Ramaphosa in the ANC.
He argued that it was a wrong move for the president to even consider talks with the DA after it had opposed many of its policies over the years including the recent signing of the National Health Insurance (NHI) bill. He said:
<blockquote>
Don’t be surprised when people take you as the enemy. The DA has opposed many policies of the ANC, so why go with a party that has always pushed you around?
This is the same party that suggested it would take further steps on the Phala Phala matter.
</blockquote>
The growing influence of ANC Chairperson Gwede Mantashe, Deputy President Paul Mashatile, and Nomvula Mokonyane over the NEC is being viewed as a sign of the shifting power dynamic within the party. Said a source:
<blockquote>
Ramaphosa has lost the NEC and this is going to prove detrimental to him in the next few weeks or months. The push for a DA coalition by those loyal to the president was widely rejected by the NEC.
</blockquote>
Reports at the weekend suggested that the ANC NEC was concerned that those close to Ramaphosa were trying to engineer “side deals” with the DA.
The meeting, apparently widely rejected a coalition with the DA and was said to be in favour of an ANC, IFP, EFF, and PA coalition. Said a source:
<blockquote>
The NEC could not bring itself to work with the DA and preferred the so-called “black pact” grouping. Ideologically it makes sense for the ANC.
</blockquote>
Another IOL source said the sense from the NEC was that if the ANC-DA coalition was pushed, it will end in tears for Ramaphosa. Said the source:
<blockquote>
The NEC will recall him if this line continues. The last meeting was a clear indicator of this. In fact, the GNU could very well have a different president in a couple of months. That is how fluid the situation is right now.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Seepe warned that the ANC-DA coalition would be the total end of the ANC.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Ramaphosa Loses Grip On ANC NEC Amid GNU Talks With DA | Report

South Africa’s governing party, the African National Congress (ANC) says it will form a government of national unity (GNU) with all parties advancing South Africa, reported <a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/politics/anc-resorts-to-government-of-national-unity-for-stability-peace-and-progress-in-south-africa-says-ramaphosa-c83b42cb-69ae-4202-a6e6-87fbaefd34da">IOL</a>.
Addressing journalists following a meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) at Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg, Ekurhuleni, ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa said:
<blockquote>
We have agreed that we will invite political parties to form a government of national unity as the best option to move our country forward.
The modalities of the government of national unity will take into account the conditions prevailing at this moment in our country’s history.
The purpose of this government of national unity must be first and foremost to tackle the pressing issues that South Africans want to be addressed.
</blockquote>
According to Ramaphosa, the pressing issues included job creation and inclusive economic growth, the high cost of living, service delivery, crime and corruption.
He said the ANC has heard the concerns of the people of South Africa, adding that the party remained a pivotal partner in the country’s search for a way forward.
Ramaphosa said the ANC had already engaged Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), the Democratic Alliance (DA), National Freedom Party (NFP), and the Patriotic Alliance (PA).
He revealed that the NEC mandated its negotiating task team to proceed to engage parties on their proposal. He said:
<blockquote>
They will also reach out to a broader range of parties to enrich the process and promote inclusiveness.
We have agreed as this NEC that it is both necessary and strategic that we act in a manner that seeks to unite the broadest range of social forces and isolate those that seek to cause chaos, instability and division.
As the ANC, we will be reaching out to formations across society to build a shared programme for social and economic change.
</blockquote>
The ANC lost its Parliamentary majority for the first time in its 30 years of rule after the end of apartheid in 1994.
The ANC got 40.18% support, with the DA on 21.81% votes, the former president Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) got 14.58%, and EFF got 9.52% votes.
With South Africa’s proportional representation system, the ANC has to combine with one or more other parties to attain more than 50% of the vote to form a government.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ANC Plans A Government Of National Unity With IFP, EFF, DA, NFP And PA

ZANU PF Secretary for Finance Patrick Chinamasa said the Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) and its leader Nelson Chamisa should be assured that there will not be a rerun of the August 2023 Harmonised Elections.
Chinamasa also said there will not be a Government of National Unity (GNU) or Transitional Authority. He posted on X:
<blockquote>
I ask the Triple C Class and its Prefect, Nelson Chamisa, to repeat after me the following:
a) that the 23rd of August 2023 was free, fair, transparent, and credible;
b) that there will be no rerun of the elections;
c) that there will be no GNU (Government of National Unity);
d) that there will be no so-called Transitional Authority (whatever that may mean);
e) that Zimbabwe, under ZANU-PF’s watch, will never be a banana republic;
f) that ZANU-PF will forever say “NO” to neocolonialism and hegemonism and an emphatic “NO” to subjugation by sanctions-imposing Western countries…
</blockquote>
Chamisa and CCC “rejected” the 23 August 2023 election results citing alleged rigging and have reportedly been engaging some SADC heads of state to push for fresh polls.
The opposition party has been pushing for a SADC-facilitated national dialogue that will result in the formation of a Transitional Authority to implement electoral reforms that will culminate in the holding of credible elections.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

2023 Elections: No Rerun, No GNU, No Transitional Authority - Chinamasa

<a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Harry_Peter_Wilson">Harry Peter Wilson</a>, the leader of the Democratic Official Party (DOP) party, says whoever wins the upcoming presidential race should consider inviting losers to form a government of national unity (GNU).
Wilson, who is one of the eleven presidential candidates that filed their nomination papers this week, said a GNU is the only solution to address the socioeconomic problems that the country is currently facing.
He is also the only presidential candidate from Matabeleland. <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200013180/presidential-candidate-supports-kasukuweres-gnu-call">NewsDay</a> quoted Wilson as saying:
<blockquote>
A GNU is very possible. We have done it before and it has worked for us that is why we are saying whoever wins the election should consider it.
The only solution to get Zimbabwe where it was is to bring everybody back to the table.
</blockquote>
Self-exiled former ZANU PF Political Commissar Saviour Kasukuwere on Friday told South African media that he was also pushing for a GNU. He said:
<blockquote>
We want to bring a broad base of people and form a government of national unity- bring skilled people who can make a difference in our country.
</blockquote>
From 2009 to 2013, Zimbabwe enjoyed relative stability when ZANU PF and the two MDCs (MDC-T and MDC) formed a GNU.
The inclusive Government followed the disputed 2008 presidential election whose results were not accepted by election observers as a reflection of the will of the Zimbabwean people.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Presidential Candidate Harry Wilson Wants Government Of National Unity

CCC leader Nelson Chamisa defended his record when he was the Minister of Information and Communication Technology from 2009 to 2013 during the Government of National Unity (GNU) era.
In a post on Twitter, Chamisa said he was privileged to have served the country as Minister of Information Communication Technology in the Inclusive Government and was ready to serve again in a different capacity.
A Twitter user, Nzekete AG then challenged Chamisa to reveal his achievements when he was ICT and not to mention “Nicholas Goche achievements.”
Goche was the Minister of Transport and Communication during the GNU era.
Responding to Nzekete AG, Chamisa said he introduced the Zimbabwe ICT policy framework, made ICT products cheaper and affordable, and removed duty on ICT products among other achievements. Chamisa wrote:
<ul>
<li>Zimbabwe ICT policy framework</li>
<li>Cheaper and affordable ICT products</li>
<li>Network rollout</li>
<li>ZimComnect E-government project</li>
<li>ICT Achievers Award</li>
<li>Digital government</li>
<li>Computerisation of rural schools</li>
<li>Deployment of Universal Services Fund to underserved areas..network in remote communities</li>
<li>IAPs and ISPs Policy Consultative round table</li>
<li>Removal of duty on ICT products</li>
<li>Capitalization of ICT companies</li>
<li>Zarnet reorientation</li>
<li>Training of government departments in ICTs</li>
<li>PFMS flagship</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chamisa Lists His "Achievements" As ICT Minister During GNU Era

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said his Government is managing the country’s economy better than the “much-vaunted” Government of National Unity (GNU).
Writing in his weekly column for <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/govt-takes-price-madness-head-on">The Sunday Mail</a>, Mnangagwa said his Government has run the budget on a cash basis thereby avoiding un-budgeted overruns, and has done it better than the GNU.
When Tendai Biti was the Minister of Finance in the GNU, he was accused of withholding funds in order to sabotage ZANU PF programmes.
He popularised the phrase “eat what you kill” as he cut unnecessary public expenditure and ran the Government budget on a strict cash basis.
But President Mnangagwa believes the current Government has created a stable environment for businesses to grow despite the local currency losing value at an alarming rate and about half of the country living in extreme poverty. He wrote:
<blockquote>
Government has pursued a prudent fiscal and monetary policy to guarantee macroeconomic stability.
Since the advent of the Second Republic, the Government budget has run on a cash basis, thus avoiding un-budgeted overruns.
This has never been so before, including under the much-vaunted Government of National Unity, GNU.
Because of this fiscal discipline, often pursued even at the expense of social delivery, space has since been created for businesses to grow in a stable environment where disequilibria are minimised. Indeed, this has been the case until now.
</blockquote>
According to <a href="https://www.businessweekly.co.zw/treasury-moves-in-to-stop-printing-press/">Business Weekly</a>, Zimbabwe has been reeling under price and currency instability which has pushed the premium between the official and parallel market rates above 100 percent.
The official exchange rate itself is not stable and the local currency has lost approximately 40 percent of its value this year alone due to excessive money creation.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Second Republic Has Run The Economy Better Than Government Of National Unity - ED

Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere has said political elites cannot delay the 2023 general elections.
Mahere also said CCC is opposed to the idea of postponing elections to form a Government of National Unity (GNU).
She was quoted by <a href="https://tellzim.com/ccc-laughs-off-gnu-election-postponement/">TellZim News</a> as saying elections when done properly, are a true expression of the will of the people. Mahere said:
<blockquote>
The constitutional requirement that elections be held every five years can’t be suspended by political elites who have no support from the citizens and are afraid of electoral loss.
ZANU PF and its proxies are terrified of how much support they have lost and are seeking to use whatever hare-brained plan they can think of to try and stop the process.
We call upon citizens to continue to demand adherence to the Constitution. Elections are like Christmas, you can’t postpone them as they will come whether or not you have new clothes.
Elections are a Constitutional non-negotiable. Citizens must be at the centre of all national processes.
We reject the notion of elite pacts or a Government of National Unity or whatever basis put forward.
Done properly, elections are a true expression of the will of the people and a total necessity in a democracy.
</blockquote>
MDC-T leader Douglas Mwonzora recently challenged the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC)’s delimitation report.
Some commentators have suggested that the court challenge may lead to the deferment of the elections, which may lead to a GNU as the country prepares for another election.
In his court application, Mwonzora argued that the final delimitation report did not take into account the final results of the population census among other issues.
He argued that such issues will affect the credibility of the elections and thus his application seeks to ensure credible elections are held using a credible delimitation report.
Mwonzora goes on to say that in the event that elections are held with the report in question, the results can be easily challenged before a court of law and be invalidated.
A political analyst, Alexander Rusero dismissed claims that Mwonzora’s court challenge is a tactic by ZANU PF to postpone the general elections.
Since Mwonzora controversially took control of the MDC in 2020, critics claim he has been working with the ruling ZANU PF party to derail the “democratic project”. Said Rusero:
<blockquote>
I think people have to understand why Mwonzora had taken the case to the court beyond the conspiracy theories doing circles that he is Mnangagwa’s blue-eyed boy intending to delay elections, that is a misleading statement and fallacy which is very costly to the opposition because ZANU PF wants those elections, they are not afraid and are prepared regardless of all such claims doing rounds in the misguided opposition rank and file.
Politics is the ability to determine outcomes and Mwonzora might be politically irrelevant in as much as the gravitas on the grassroots on the ground is concerned but you cannot take away his legal talents and prowess as he is one of the best lawyers produced in Zimbabwe since 1980.
So I am very sure he picked certain loopholes in the whole delimitation exercise that warrants court attention and that is why the case was given the green light that it warrants a hearing by the full bench.
There is really nothing to take away from that since it is not the first time a case has been granted such kind of attention by the courts.
Suppose Mwonzora wins that does not have a bearing on issues politically or at law to do with the proclamation of election dates or some possibilities of delaying an election.
The whole idea is, should he win because the case has been positively perceived to have some merits, ZEC can be directed to do certain things right and not necessarily to delay or stop the process of elections.
Elections are conducted when they are constitutionally due and not when a country is ready or ZEC has exposed certain incompetences or not political parties are ready. Elections are done within the prescribed time frame.
</blockquote>
Rusero argued that the way ZANU PF has been campaigning does not indicate that the ruling party is considering the possibility of delaying elections.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Elections Are Like Christmas, You Can’t Postpone Them - Mahere

The President of the Zimbabwe Chief’s Council Chief Fortune Charumbira has denied claims that he urged CCC leader Nelson Chamisa and President Emmerson Mnangagwa to join hands and form a Government of National Unity (GNU).
Speaking to <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/chief-charumbira-rubbishes-reports-he-called-for-gnu/">The Herald</a>, Charumbira said contrary to reports on social media that he pleaded with Chamisa and Mnangagwa to consider foregoing this year’s elections in favour of a GNU, he called for unity among all Zimbabweans irrespective of political differences. He said:
<blockquote>
Of course, it is utter rubbish that I appealed to (Mr) Chamisa to join President Mnangagwa in a GNU for whatever reason including to avoid elections due this year.
Of course, nothing can be further from the truth because the unity I was talking about was the unity of all Zimbabweans to pull and push in the same direction irrespective of political differences and who is in power.
I was not talking about the unity of political parties that they must join to form a Government, no!
It was unity to cast aside political differences and come up with a single agenda to develop Zimbabwe in peace and harmony without necessarily collapsing different political parties.
I said we must unite and contest elections in harmony and peace and this was predicated on (Mr) Chamisa who earlier on in his speech had said President Mnangagwa is his brother.
I told (Mr) Chamisa that since he openly conceded on his own during his own speech before I spoke that President Mnangagwa is his brother, why then doesn’t he visit him at State House?
Pay a courtesy call on him as the President and big brother and drink tea together to nourish harmony, peace and oneness in our country. I never talked about GNU as purported.
</blockquote>
Charumbira was alleged to have made the “GNU” remarks at Mbetu Village in Charumbira communal lands on Sunday where he was part of the mourners at the burial of Mbuya Mafume, who is mother to Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume (CCC).
Chief Charumbira is related to the Mafumes through a family marriage.
He attended the funeral as a relative and also in his capacity as a traditional leader of the area.
Chamisa and other CCC leaders, including MPs and councillors and party members, attended the funeral.
Charumbira also rubbished claims that he was pushing for a Karanga hegemony in Zimbabwe when he said Chamisa should not challenge his “homeboy”, Mnangagwa. He said:
<blockquote>
In the run-up to the 2018 harmonised elections, I approached (Mr) Chamisa and asked him why he was challenging his homeboy (President Mnangagwa) in an election instead of respecting him as the elder brother and let him run his race.
I was saying this as a person who is familiar with both of them by virtue of my position as chief and on Sunday again I was merely repeating the same message I first have him in 2018.
I never said we should forego this year’s elections for a GNU why would I say that when processes are already underway to hold polls as constitutionally mandated?
I was only highlighting that election outcomes should not be the basis of not working in unison to grow our country as one people with a shared past and a common future.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

I Did Not Call For A Government Of National Unity - Chief Charumbira

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has been urged to seriously consider forming a Government of National Unity (GNU) with his political rivals as demanded by Zimbabwean citizens.
In an editorial, the Daily News said political polarisation in Zimbabwe can only end if there is a genuine, transparent and all-inclusive dialogue, which will result in the formation of a GNU.
The GNU should have a specific mandate, that is,  to establish strong institutions and entrench democracy in the country. It read in part:
<blockquote>President Emmerson Mnangagwa should take heed of the people’s pleadings and seriously pursue the need for a GNU. The sooner the better for the country!
We said it and we will continue to do so, the country needs unity of purpose, shared vision and values to extricate the country from the doldrums.</blockquote>
This comes following reports of low-level talks between the MDC-T led by Thokozani Khupe and the ruling ZANU PF for the formation of a GNU.
Zimbabwe had a GNU between 2009 and 2013 when the leaders of ZANU PF, MDC-T and MDC-N, Robert Mugabe, Morgan Tsvangirai and Arthur Mutambara respectively, came together under then South African President Thambo’s mediation.
This resulted in a period of relative political stability and economic progress.
<h4>More: <a href="https://dailynews.co.zw/leaders-should-heed-gnu-calls/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Daily News</a></h4>

President Mnangagwa Urged To Heed GNU Calls

The Zimbabwean government said a dialogue platform is already in place in the form of the Political Actors Dialogue (POLAD), therefore, there is no place for a parallel arrangement for political actors.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Ndavaningi Mangwana, said there won’t be dialogue for a powersharing arrangement as there is no provision for that in the national constitution.
Mangwana told political players, civic society organisations and churches to wait for elections in 2023 and allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to fulfil his mandate in the meantime. He said:
<blockquote>There is a platform for dialogue already. Everyone else came to that platform, there is only one political party that didn’t come for dialogue.
President Mnangagwa has no problem with dialogue (and) that is why there is POLAD. There is nothing sinister about dialogue as long as people don’t think that dialogue is a power-sharing platform. Dialogue is about Zimbabweans speaking to one another, charting a course for their country.
The issue of a power-sharing arrangement is not on the table as that is unconstitutional. Our Constitution is very clear. There is no room for such an animal, after the elections. We can only wait for 2023.
The issue of who will govern this nation, that matter was settled in 2018. So that is not going to be a negotiated thing because that is a settled issue.
If there is anything to talk about as to find out what is best for our country, Zimbabweans should talk to one another, but when it comes to political actors, the platform is there already.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/dialogue-door-wide-open/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Herald</a></h4>

Govt Won't Entertain Calls For A Powersharing Arrangement - Mangwana

MDC Alliance co-vice president Tendai Biti has revealed what military generals demanded from the then MDC president Morgan Tsvangirai in 2008 after he had won the presidential race.
The former Finance Minister said the military general requested six things from Tsvangirai but the issues never received sufficient attention during the talks which led to the formation of an inclusive government in 2009. Biti said:
<blockquote>There must be a dialogue that takes care of military concerns. In 2008 after the MDC won the elections, the military sent envoys to talk to Morgan Tsvangirai and they raised six key issues, including concerns about transitional justice.
They wanted to know if a future government would not prosecute them for crimes they had been made to commit in the past, and we gave them assurance on a transparent programme of transitional justice.
They also wanted guarantees that the future government would not dispossess them of their land and reverse the land reform programme.
Of course, the answer to that one is obvious because no one wants to reverse the land question and I don’t think it is possible to reverse the land reform programme.
The next question was about their conditions of service, decent salaries and that their pensions be not affected, which again is not a problem.
They also wanted to know if they would be allowed to participate in the spheres of the economy, including joining the civil service should they quit the military.
So, their concerns need to be addressed in any dialogue that is meaningful.
Their fifth question was whether those who wanted to leave the country would be allowed to do so, and again that is obvious as there is freedom of movement in the country.</blockquote>
Recently, national spokesperson of the National Patriotic Front (NPF), <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/08/10/ramaphosas-envoy-must-engage-zimbabwes-military-mawarire/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jealousy Mawarire, called upon South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s envoys to include the military in their engagements</a> for Zimbabwe to find a lasting solution to its perennial governance issues. He said:
<blockquote>Hopefully, President Cyril Ramaphosa and the ANC will understand that we need to dialogue with the army which took over Zanu-PF, the State and Government.
If we don’t, a worse situation will explode, especially now, that there are two militarized factions in Zanu-PF dabbling in politics.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://dailynews.co.zw/involve-military-in-national-talks-biti-says-their-central-role-in-zim-politics-cannot-be-wished-away/?fbclid=IwAR1uvIJAiaReqhI_Qt8X6-7UwWDhN4R1nzNgPscDm6i4oqDNliCP0BqlPtc" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Daily News</a></h4>

Biti Reveals What Military Generals Requested From Tsvangirai In 2008

Hopewell Chin’ono, an award winning Zimbabwean journalist and filmmaker has warned the opposition MDC against considering to fom a coalition government with the ruling ZANU PF which he said is not keen on reforming.
He made reference to the 2009 Government of National Unity which comprised of ZANU PF and two MDC outfits, MDC-T and MDC-N which he said failed to compel ZANU PF to implement the much needed reforms.Chin’ono said:
<blockquote>Dear Zimbabweans, don’t be fooled‬ by this GNU talk!!!
‪A GNU doesn’t change anything, ZANUPF doesn’t need a GNU to do the right thing!‬</blockquote>
<div class="text_exposed_show">
<blockquote>‪We should learn from the previous GNU, ZANUPF refused to implement Politcal Reforms!‬
‪What is NOW needed is the total removal of ZANUPF from power.‬
‪MDC would be foolish to even consider this! ZANUPF should Implement Political Reforms if it is genuine or else it will be swept away by circumstances at the right time!</blockquote>
He added that ZANU PF would use the GNU to loot national resources.
There are some who believe that the standoff between ZANU PF and MDC is worsening the country’s economic and humanitarian crisis, they therefore recommend a national dialogue aimed at mapping out a shared national vision.
More: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hopewelljournalist/photos/a.1761564017398962/2712017352353619/?type=3&amp;__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARCjrFu4VSEygA6mZ1W1WvZ-hIMZ7a-5x8yn6bXS1V93KsEJHs9WOPkIplVNFAzwYWcqeyvUTYa381UhhwhveYu9XV5JsxdzOfigkSTQChgdDbdKiR4kJmLVYs49GWd13dg6upT3z2brNdng3kyBMPqRcLUY7GySOMxqV_2yZ9xhnVPyY7KuhLFBU9Qw-06a6-KWm2UM6r7XZVc2xuKkK7iGJhPMUr1om9aDxixEqVYvQDp2QX5llqogCv9KAY4D9Bkdumh7rj3h-zbj6YiNrqCztIMEvs_7Mmyg0qWPm-pV83l0emasuntSIn-DKWmhfBn7Ta0YnhoolOiGoU8lGjzHUMVV&amp;__tn__=-R">Hopewell Chin’ono</a>
</div>

"MDC Would Be Foolish To Even Consider This!" - Chin'ono Speaks On GNU

The ruling ZANU PF party is currently negotiating with the MDC faction led by <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Thokozani_Khupe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Thokozani Khupe</a> to form a government of national unity (GNU), MDC Alliance vice president <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Tendai_Biti" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Tendai Biti</a> has claimed.
The outspoken former Finance Minister during the 2009-13 GNU said the government is planning to amend the constitution to suspend all elections for 7 years. <a href="https://twitter.com/BitiTendai/status/1260163117314646016" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Biti tweeted</a>:
<blockquote>Desperate regime actively negotiating some GNU with Supreme Court created Frankenstein outfit and other dross with constitutional amendments being mooted some of which are to suspend all elections for 7 years. The desperate marriage of unelectable desperados not popular inside.
The regime is broke and broke in absolute terms. The coffers are empty and they are generating salaries through the RTGS Ponzi scheme.
To date, Treasury has not disbursed safety nets payment to Min of Social Services. Tobacco sales have had a poor start and donors not coming on board.
No amount of lipstick or political gamesmanship can save regime and  its acolytes. No amount of manipulation and abuse of state institutions will save same.
Only robust political solution that respects the people s will and commits to irrecoverable reforms can save Zimbabwe.</blockquote>
Some reports claim that Khupe wants to expel more MDC Alliance MPs from Parliament so that she gets a seat and become Leader of the Opposition in Parliament to be in a position to negotiate a power-sharing deal with President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

ZANU PF, MDC-T In GNU Talks, Plot To Suspend Elections For 7 Years - Biti

South Sudan ’s President Salva Kiir is expected to swear in former rebel leader Riek Machar as his first vice president on Saturday following a pact between the two men to form a Government of National Unity (GNU).
Kiir and Machar had repeatedly pushed back deadlines to form a government of national unity following a peace accord signed in 2018.
The formation of a unity government is expected to end a war that has claimed 400 000 lives in Africa’s newest State.
The two rivals met on Thursday at State House and said that a government will be formed and they will resolve outstanding issues, such as the unification of the army, in the coming days.
The swearing-in is expected to take place at 2 p.m. (1100 GMT).
<h4>More: <a href="https://af.reuters.com/article/topNews/idAFKCN20G0E8-OZATP" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Reuters</a></h4>

South Sudan's Warring Factions To Form Unity Government

Innocent Tapo, a Newsday reader wrote an opinion piece for the publication in which he clearly states that sanctions must stay in play until the ruling party reforms. Innocent said sanctions were supposed to stay in place to remind President Mnangagwa that real reforms, not petty ones, are important.
Tapo opined:
<blockquote>Talk has been going on for almost 15 years as to whether targeted sanctions imposed on the Zanu PF officials must be lifted or not. The sanctions must stay as a reminder to President Emmerson Mnagagwa that the international community is still concerned about reforms in Zimbabwe.
In the aftermath of the 2008 general elections, if there were no European Union and United States-imposed sanctions, the then Zanu PF government could have resisted the formation of a g<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Government_of_National_Unity">overnment of national unity (GNU).</a>
But with the election results of the June 2008 presidential run-off dismissed by both the Africa Union and Sadc as not free and fair, Zanu PF agreed to form an uneasy GNU. So sanctions really worked and can still work.
The present situation where few people are not allowed to go to the United States or Europe to shop, wine and dine is meant to make these people use their influence to implement the much-needed reforms at home.
If they want these sanctions removed, let them open up democratic space in the country. There is need for real reforms, not petty ones.
We have a new Constitution, but our laws and statutes have not been realigned to it, making it ineffective. Opposition parties are still complaining that the playing field is tilted in Zanu PF’s favour.
<div class="code-block code-block-7">State security agents are allegedly dabbling in politics in favour of Zanu PF, negating or compromising their constitutional duties.</div>
The argument that sanctions have hurt our economy sounds comic because even before the Western sanctions were imposed, our economy was going downhill. As long as human rights abuses persist and reforms remain far-fetched, sanctions must remain in place.</blockquote>
Source:<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2020/01/amhvoices-sanctions-must-remain-until-zanu-pf-reforms/"> Newsday</a>

OPINION: Sanctions Must Remain Until Zanu PF Reforms

MDC leader Nelson Chamisa said dialogue to resolve Zimbabwe’s crises should be between his party, ZANU PF, churches, labour, and civic society.
Speaking during an interview with NewsDay on Thursday, Chamisa dismissed the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Political_Actors_Dialogue" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Political Actors Dialogue (POLAD)</a> as a sideshow meant to settle some cheap political scores. He said:
<blockquote>The nature of the dialogue that is credible is dialogue that involves Zanu PF and the MDC and, of course, labour going forward to be consulted.
Churches, civic society also needs to play a role and needs to be done through credible facilitation and adjudication with Zimbabwe being the main player for a wholly Zimbabwean solution to Zimbabwean challenges.</blockquote>
Chamisa criticised agreements made in the past by the country’s political players, that is, the 1979 <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Lancaster_House_Agreement" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lancaster House Agreement</a>, the 1987 Unity Accord and the 2008 <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Global_Political_Agreement" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Global Political Agreement</a> as elitist since they involved only key (political) players.
He asserted that former South African President Thabo Mbeki, who was in the country earlier this week, and President Cyril Ramaphosa, as well as SADC, appreciates that the Zimbabwean problem is a political problem.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2019/12/talks-are-for-mdc-zanu-pf-chamisa/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NewsDay</a></h4>

Chamisa: Mbeki, Ramaphosa, SADC Appreciates That Zimbabwe Has A Political Problem

Former Deputy Minister for Youth Affairs, Tongai Matutu has been deregistered by the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Law_Society_of_Zimbabwe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Law Society of Zimbabwe</a> (LSZ) and thus, can no longer practise law. Matutu was a junior minister in the all-inclusive government between 2009 to 2013.
In its latest report, the Law Society indicated that eight lawyers have been deregistered for various misdemeanours.
The development was confirmed to ZTN by LSZ president Thandaza Masiye Moyo;
<blockquote>Nine lawyers have been deregistered between August 2018 to date, and we have about 14 matters that are pending before the Legal Practitioners Tribunal.
But what you would understand is that not all these 14 lawyers will necessarily plead to these matters that are pending.</blockquote>
Other lawyers to have been deregistered include Amon Tendai Toto who was found guilty of misappropriating trust funds and failing to maintain proper books of accounts and Simbarashe Tawona who was found guilty of misappropriating trust funds.
Matutu was a junior minister (from the MDC then led by Morgan Tsvangirai) in the all-inclusive government from 2009 to 2013.
<h4>More: <a href="https://ztn.co.zw/stream/2019/12/former-zimbabwe-minister-barred-from-practising-law/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ZTN</a></h4>

Former Minister Banned From Practising Law

The Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) led by <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Nelson Chamisa</a> will push for electoral and political reforms if the envisaged dialogue with the ruling ZANU PF party comes to fruition.
A party insider who spoke to Busines Times said the party does not want a power-sharing arrangement, but a Transitional Authority that will lead the country towards a credible election in 2023. The unnamed official is quoted as saying:
<blockquote>We need genuine political and electoral reforms that are wholesome as we don’t want piecemeal reforms. We also need independent commis­sions and adequate constitu­tional amendments.
We can’t continue to have a cycle of disputed elections as what has been happening in the past. The MDC can only participate in the elections with genuine reforms.
The opposition is not seeking power-sharing arrange­ment with any party but wants reforms and also a National Transitional Authority which the modalities can be worked out.</blockquote>
In 2009, a government of unity was formed, with <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Robert_Mugabe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Robert Mugabe</a> as President, while <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Morgan_Tsvangirai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Morgan Tsvangirai</a> of the MDC was Prime Minister.
The coalition government, however, failed to implement several reforms that were agreed on during its four years of existence.
<h4>More: <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/first-hurdle-for-mbeki-as-talks-begin/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Business Times</a></h4>

'MDC Does Not Want Power Sharing, But A National Transitional Authority'

South Africa’s former President, Thabo Mbeki, will be coming back to Zimbabwe to continue his mediatorial role before the end of this year.
Speaking to reporters before leaving for South Africa on Wednesday, Mbeki expressed his “interest” in the Zimbabwean situation. He said:
<blockquote>We have been talking to everybody and everybody, of course, is interested to discuss the situation and I am interested too in the situation here, just to understand what has been happening and to say very basically, we support the efforts of the Zimbabweans to address their fundamental challenges.
Whatever the challenges are, (it is important) that everybody gets together, so we have been listening to everybody and we have finished that listening process. So we will come back later this month to continue to finalise that.</blockquote>
Mbeki visited the country on Monday before meeting President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his rival, MDC leader Nelson Chamisa separately, members of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Political_Actors_Dialogue" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Political Actors Dialogue (POLAD)</a>, and churches and civic organisations.
The internationally-recognised former statesman facilitated dialogue between Robert Mugabe and MDC leader <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Morgan_Tsvangirai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Morgan Tsvangirai</a> (both late), resulting in the formation of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Government_of_National_Unity" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">a Government of National Unity (GNU)</a> in 2009.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2019/12/ill-be-back-for-more-talks-mbeki/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NewsDay</a></h4>

Mbeki Coming Back For More Talks Before Year End

Member of Parliament for Norton constituency, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Temba_Mliswa" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Temba Mliswa</a> (Independent), said the formation of a coalition government or <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Government_of_National_Unity" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">government of national unity (GNU)</a> in Zimbabwe will be against the provisions of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Constitution_of_Zimbabwe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Constitution</a> and a negation of the will of the electorate.
Writing on microblogging site Twitter, Mliswa argued that forming a coalition government will create anarchy and that such a move will be in direct contravention of clear Constitutional order. He said:
<blockquote>The recent talk of coalition dialogue is a shaky ground because it goes against constitutional dictates and the will of the electorate. That creates anarchy. We are seeking to undermine our own Constitution by going against a clear Constitutional Court order.</blockquote>
Mliswa’s remarks come when the generality of Zimbabwe are longing for a GNU to ease their suffering emanating from a haemorrhaging economy.
In 2009, ZANU PF, MDC-T and MDC-N formed a GNU even though there was no provision in the Constitution for that. An amendment was made on the Lancaster House Constitution that was in place at the time to accommodate a coalition government.
<h4>More: <a href="https://twitter.com/TembaMliswa/status/1206956750869544964?s=20" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@TembaMliswa</a></h4>

Mliswa: Forming A GNU Is Unconstitutional & Will Create Anarchy

Former South African President Thabo Mbeki’s visit to Zimbabwe does not signal any intent to form another <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Government_of_National_Unity" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">government of national unity (GNU)</a>.
This was said by National Constitutional Assembly (NCA) leader <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Lovemore_Madhuku" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lovemore Madhuku</a> during an interview with Zim Morning Post. He said:
<blockquote>A GNU was not part of that conversation with Mbeki. We told him the problems we are facing as political actors and he acknowledged that dialogue was the only available option at the moment.
But if he thinks of another avenue besides the Polad route, then that would be welcome.</blockquote>
Mbeki arrived in Zimbabwe on Monday and met with President Emmerson Mnangagwa and later with MDC president Nelson Chamisa.
On Tuesday, he met some of the opposition political leaders under the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Political_Actors_Dialogue" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Political Actors Dialogue</a> banner and was also scheduled to meet church leaders and civil society organisations’ representatives.
Meanwhile, SADC Executive Secretary, Stergomena Lawrence Tax, earlier urged regional citizens to support “the mediation” in a Twitter post that she later deleted ;
<blockquote>Fellow Sadc citizens, let us give space to the mediation! And let us be supportive.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://zimmorningpost.com/mbeki-visit-no-gnu-part-2-in-the-making/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Zim Morning Post</a></h4>

No Talk Of GNU During Mbeki's Visit - Madhuku

MDC president Nelson Chamisa has blamed ZANU PF for the breakdown of talks to form another <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Government_of_National_Unity" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Government of National Unity (GNU)</a> following the military coup of November 2017. Speaking to the Daily News, Chamisa said:
<blockquote>The problem was that they (Zanu PF bigwigs) were playing a game, and were singling out some people they said had the capacity in MDC … singling out myself, (Eddie) Cross, (Tapiwa) Mashakada and others.
So, they were dividing people. And mudhara anga avakupihwa dot.com renhema manje (Tsvangirai was being told lots of lies), achinzi no, Mnangagwa atova muma talks naChamisa, akati iwe hauchisina basa (he was being told ED was now in talks with Chamisa, making Tsvangirai irrelevant).
Kusvika mudhara atozondibvunza kuti ‘ko iwe, vana Mnangagwa vaya havachadzokika. Varikutaura newe here?’ (Tsvangirai even asked Chamisa whether Mnangagwa was now engaging in talks with him).</blockquote>
Chamisa also confirmed that elections were to be held after two or three years after the formation of the GNU to usher in a real new dispensation.
Morgan Tsvangirai and Dumiso Dabengwa, the then leaders of MDC and ZAPU respectively (now both late), died bitter men, Chamisa claimed.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.dailynews.co.zw/articles/2019/10/21/zanu-pf-mdc-row-over-gnu-as-both-parties-tussle-over-talks-how-to-end-zim-rot" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Daily News</a></h4>

Chamisa: ZANU PF Wanted To Co-opt Me, Mashakada & Cross

War veterans on Sunday called on President Emmerson Mnangagwa to reach out to the opposition to form a Government of National Unity (GNU).
The war veterans accused cabinet ministers of misleading President to corruptly benefit from the current economic crisis.
In an exclusive interview with The Zimbabwe Morning Post in Mutare, Irvin Mbengo the Deputy Political Commissar for Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (Manicaland Chapter) said:
<blockquote>The problem is that President Mnangagwa is taking too much time concentrating and listening to useless people around him, these so-called ministers.
These are the wrong people giving him poisonous ideas. These people are not employable elsewhere so they hang around the President giving him wrong information and advice, thereby, taking advantage of their positions to thrive on massive corruption, enriching themselves in the process.
They have taken the situation to further satisfy their selfish egos and ends. They are heartless these people. The President must not listen to these people anymore because what they want is to benefit from the country’s economic situation.
We have too many thieves in the leadership of this country. There is corruption everywhere and our country’s leadership is protecting these corrupt officials.
… The only answer that solves the economy is the GNU. It will only take about nine months before we start talking about a better economy. We have tasted how life was good during the previous GNU.
Everything was dead in the country. But when the GNU came in everything came alive again. Everything went well smoothly.
Now we are back at it again, we have long queues and cashless banks. We should not be late again, GPA is the only solution.</blockquote>
In 2009, following the total collapse of the country’s economy, the then President Robert Mugabe and opposition leaders Morgan Tsvangirai and Arthur Mutambara came together to form an all-inclusive government.
The shortlived GNU brought stability to the country. At the end of the GNU in 2013, the economy again entered into a tailspin.
<h4>More: <a href="https://zimmorningpost.com/war-vets-call-for-gnu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Zim Morning Post</a></h4>

War Veterans Call For A Government Of National Unity

A top ZANU PF official and Speaker of the National Assembly, Jacob Mudenda, yearns for the “good old days” when Zimbabwe was being led by a Government of National Unity (GNU).
According to NewZimbabwe.com, Mudenda remarked that Zimbabwe experienced a period of serenity during the GNU era.
He said this on Thursday last week while addressing mourners at a church service held in respect of the late Vimbai Tsvangirai Java. Mudenda said:
<blockquote>We enjoyed the serenity of politics during the GNU. That spirit must come back. It must come back.
I pray to the church, that the church must be on their knees each day of their lives and pray for the unity for the people of Zimbabwe.
… I believe that the spirit of the late Dr Tsvangirai which we celebrate through her daughter today shall be reflected in our national politics.
Don’t forget that when the Government of National Unity was formed, Dr Tsvangirai did not look at positional politics, he looked at national politics and what that brings to the people of Zimbabwe.</blockquote>
Mudenda was jeered by MDC supporters during the event and MDC president Nelson Chamisa had a torrid time pacifying his supporters.
Vimbai Tsvangirai Java was the eldest daughter to the late former Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai.
She was the MP for Glen View South constituency at the time of her demise.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/mudenda-pleads-for-gnu-calls-on-ed-and-chamisa-to-find-each-other/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">New Zimbabwe</a></h4>

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