Relations between Zimbabwe and Zambia has been thrown into chaos following the release of an explosive election report by Sadc Election Observer Mission. The report, which has ignited a political firestorm, has significantly strained the ties between the two neighbouring nations.
The report was compiled by the observer mission led by Nevers Mumba, former Vice-President of Zambia and appointed by President Hichilema Hakainde. As the chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) Troika on Politics, Defence, and Security, President Hichilema holds significant influence in the region.
The damning report concluded that the recent elections in Zimbabwe did not meet the democratic standards set by both the regional Sadc and the international community. Zanu PF has vehemently denied any wrongdoing.
Last week, President Hichilema boycotted the inauguration of Zimbabwean President Mnangagwa. Officials in Harare have launched a vigorous campaign to discredit President Hichilema and Nevers Mumba, labeling them as “Western puppets.”
Meanwhile, protests have erupted in Zambia, with supporters of President Hichilema taking to the streets, chanting slogans denouncing the alleged interference by Zanu PF in Zambia’s internal affairs. Accusations have been made against Zanu PF officials, including Patrick Chinamasa, of attempting to destabilize Zambia and even planning harm against President Hichilema.
The relationship between Zimbabwe and Zambia, once deeply intertwined during the colonial era as Southern and Northern Rhodesia, now stands at a crossroads.
