Joint local statement on peaceful primary elections within political parties

Position, 06.04.2018

The European Union Delegation, the Heads of Mission of EU Member States present in Harare and the Head of Mission of Switzerland issue the following statement in Zimbabwe:

EU and Switzerland reaffirm their commitment to continued support to peaceful, inclusive, credible and transparent 2018 harmonised elections in Zimbabwe.
EU and Switzerland reaffirm their commitment to continued support to peaceful, inclusive, credible and transparent 2018 harmonised elections in Zimbabwe. © Embassy of switzerland in Zimbabwe.

The Heads of Mission of the EU and Switzerland reaffirm their commitment to continued support to peaceful, inclusive, credible and transparent 2018 harmonised elections in Zimbabwe.

In light of the upcoming primary elections to select candidates of political parties, the Heads of Mission encourage all political parties to adhere to principles of mutual respect and tolerance in order to contribute to a peaceful, just and democratic society.

In particular, the Heads of Mission wish to emphasise the constitutional right of women to equal treatment and opportunities as well as full participation in the political sphere.

The Heads of Mission further urge all parties and their supporters to respect the democratic principles and to act in a non-violent and peaceful manner and call on all stakeholders to condemn all types of violence and intimidation clearly and unequivocally during the candidature selection.