Source:
https://www.citizen.co.za/news/ramaphosa-defends-message-zimbabwe-mnangagwa/
President Cyril Ramaphosa has defended his congratulatory message to Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa for his re-election, explaining that it was in response to the country’s electoral commission’s declaration. Ramaphosa addressed critics and emphasized the need to wait for finalization before assessing election results.
Zimbabwe held elections over two days, with allegations of delays, rigging, and voter suppression. Mnangagwa secured a second term with 52.6% of the vote against his main rival, Nelson Chamisa, who received 44%. However, the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), led by Chamisa, rejected the results as “false.” Foreign observers, including the EU, Commonwealth, and Southern African Development Community (SADC), raised concerns about opposition rally bans, voter registration issues, biased media coverage, and intimidation. Ramaphosa faced criticism for congratulating Zimbabwe on “harmonized elections” while acknowledging the challenging economic environment due to sanctions. The statement from the Presidency stated that South Africa recognized the preliminary assessments of international observer missions like the AU and SADC. Ramaphosa urged Zimbabwean political parties to collaborate for peace, development, and shared prosperity.
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