Zims Have Spoken, Blocs Must Listen

Monitor Editor | Monday November 20, 2017 17:55

Many have taken to social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook, to show their displeasure with the bloc. On November 15, SADC issued a statement, which  was quickly attacked many Zimbabweans who criticised the bloc for its ‘long silence when the people of Zimbabwe were suffering’.

The SADC statement by South African President, Jacob Zuma, current chairperson of SADC read: “The Southern African Development Community (SADC) notes with great concern the unfolding political situation in the Republic of Zimbabwe. SADC calls for calm and restraint, and expresses hope that developments in Zimbabwe would not lead to unconstitutional changes of Government, as that would be contrary to both SADC and African Union principles.

SADC urges the Government of the Republic of Zimbabwe, and the Zimbabwe Defence Force to resolve the political impasse amicably, and further urges the Zimbabwe Defence Force to ensure that the maintenance of peace and security in the country is not compromised. SADC will continue to closely monitor the situation, and remains ready to assist where necessary to resolve the political impasse in keeping with established SADC Protocols and processes”. 

The statement led to many Zimbabweans being suspicious of SADC’s intentions. There is not doubt that a majority of Zimbabweans at this present moment are speaking with one voice, and that is for President Robert Mugabe, who has ruled the country for 37 years to step down. The statement seems to suggest that the  bloc wants to protect Mugabe. Some of the tweets by Zimbabweans do not mince words, and show how disappointed they are with both the regional and continental bodies whose actions over the years were too little and now, too late.

  “South Africa, Zuma and Mbeki as well as SADC must leave Zimbabwe alone for now. Should we get to a point when we need you, we will advise and invite you. I hope SADC will not take any action that will see them fighting with the rest of the citizens of Zimbabwe. We have been suffering all along without your help, and now you want to come in because one of your members is out. Hands off Zimbabwe unless you want to fight with the rest of Zimbabwe” - Thomas Dube, November 16.