Political Correspondent
United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA) president Elisabeth Valerio has condemned opposition parties for attending the recent Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit, accusing them of legitimizing a false image of democracy in Zimbabwe.
“Opposition parties present at the summit were there to sanitize the facade of a matured democracy, yet we all know the reality. We must hold our national leaders to account,” Valerio said.
Valerio questioned the significance of Zimbabwe’s assumption of the SADC Chairmanship, calling it a routine rotation.
“It’s not an extraordinary achievement, therefore, the excess celebration and national expenditures incurred are unnecessary.”
She emphasized that tangible improvements for Zimbabweans are what truly matter, not the title.
“If we are to expect anything positive from holding the SADC Chairmanship, it should first be reflected in tangible improvements within our borders. Sadly, reality is far from this.”
Valerio also highlighted the failure of the Zimbabwean government to adhere to SADC protocols and guidelines on governance.
“Instead of celebrating a title, we should be focusing on ensuring that these commitments are fulfilled.”
Her comments come as opposition leaders attended the SADC summit amid ongoing crackdowns on activists and human rights defenders in Zimbabwe.
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