Zimbabwe Civil Society positions on the ongoing talks

Zimbabwe Watch and Europe External Policy Advisors EEPA published an overview of the positions and recommendations by Zimbabwean Civil Society Organisations on the ongoing negotiations between ZanuPF and the two formations of the MDC.

The report also indicates the benchmarks for any negotiation outcome to be considered as addressing the needs and wants of the people of Zimbabwe. These benchmarks must be considered by the international community before actively reengaging with the Government of Zimbabwe, particularly providing macro-economic rescue packages for Zimbabwe.

The first and most immediate concern is the immediate stop of political violence and opening up of humanitarian space by the Government of Zimbabwe and ZanuPF. Talks cannot be taken seriously as long as this basic issues, on which all parties agreed are not addressed.

Zimbabwean Civil Society does not consider the election on June 27 as expressing the will of the people. They therefore stress that the outcomes of the talks must lead to a transitional authority, which respects the 29 March 2008 election outcomes, revives the economy and prepares free and fair elections. They also insist that a new and democratic Zimbabwe must be founded on the basis of popular consultation and demand a popular vote on any outcome of the negotiations. And demand a more formalised ways for them to give input and be consulted on the issues at stake in the negotiations.

Benchmarks for the outcomes of the talks to address the needs and wants of the people of Zimbabwe include the immediate the cessation of violence, investigation of right abuses and bringing all perpetrators of all rights violations to book. Particularly In the event of Mugabe and his party once again block the mediation process in the current round of negotiations, SADC should consider diplomatic sanctions against the Mugabe regime, a renewed process must be initiated to bring UN sanctions against Zimbabwe’s ruling party. And civic groups in the region and internationally, in particular trade unions, must mobilise for further isolation of the Mugabe regime.

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