Staff Reporter

In a significant political development, ambassadors from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries have unanimously praised and endorsed the recent elections in Zimbabwe, declaring them credible, free, and fair.

This endorsement came yesterday when ambassadors from Angola, Namibia, South Africa, Botswana, Tanzania, Malawi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mozambique, and Zambia paid a courtesy call on President Emmerson Mnangagwa at State House.

The ambassadors collectively congratulated President Mnangagwa on his electoral victory, marking a pivotal moment in regional politics.

Political analyst, Nobleman Runyanga said that the diplomatic ensemble's acknowledgment of the credibility of Zimbabwe’s elections reflects a strong regional consensus, underscoring the SADC member countries' support for the integrity of the country's democratic process.

This sentiment was echoed by other political analysts, Paidamoyo Mutsvairo and Edith Mushore, who commented on the SADC ambassadors' endorsement.

"The ambassadors' stance mirrors the prevailing belief in their respective countries. Their visit signifies a dwindling regional political sympathy for the opposition CCC, as the SADC region now views the previous elections as a concluded chapter," stated Runyanga.

Mutsvairo added, "It's crucial for the CCC to shift focus from remaining in election mode to contributing towards national development and preparing for the 2028 elections."

Edith Mushore further emphasised, "This development is a clear indication that the SADC region recognises and respects the electoral outcomes in Zimbabwe."

Amidst these developments, renowned political analyst, Hopewell Chin'ono commented on the SADC ambassadors' visit to President Mnangagwa and their endorsement of the elections.

Chin’ono expressed hope that this would dispel the opposition's narrative regarding the election results.

"I hope this will put an end to the lies that were fed to opposition supporters that SADC was coming to read the riot act to (President) Mnangagwa and his administration. Acres and acres of false propaganda and delusionary analysis were fed to unsuspecting citizens," Chin'ono stated.

Meanwhile, this collective regional acknowledgment by SADC ambassadors marks a significant shift in the political landscape of Southern Africa. It not only reaffirms the legitimacy of Zimbabwe's recent elections but also signifies the region's commitment to upholding democratic principles.