Innocent Sibonginkosi Ncube
BULAWAYO – The United Kingdom has firmly stated that Zimbabwe must address its governance and human rights issues before it can be readmitted into the Commonwealth, effectively stalling the country’s return to the organization from which it was suspended in 2002.
Following a recommendation from the Commonwealth secretariat for Zimbabwe’s readmission, member countries were given until November 26 to express their views.
A consensus among all members is required for readmission. However, the UK’s foreign office has made it clear that the timing is not conducive for Zimbabwe’s return.
In a written response to Baroness Kate Hoey in the House of Lords, the foreign office stated,
“The UK has always been clear that we would like to see Zimbabwe return to the Commonwealth when the time is right. However, currently we do not share the secretariat’s assessment of Zimbabwe’s progress or readiness in line with the shared values and principles laid out in the Commonwealth Charter.”
While acknowledging some progress, the UK emphasized that “further steps are needed on democracy, governance, and human rights” before Zimbabwe can formally apply for re-admission.
Specifically, the UK noted that Zimbabwe has not yet implemented the recommendations made by the Commonwealth Election Observer Mission.
The observers highlighted several critical deficiencies, including the lack of independence of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, exorbitant candidate registration fees that hinder participation, a lack of judicial independence, and insufficient transparency in the announcement of election results.
Looking ahead, the UK expressed a commitment to further evaluations, stating,
“We would encourage a further Commonwealth assessment mission to Zimbabwe in 2025 to follow up on these areas.”
The foreign office also reiterated its support for Zimbabwe, adding,
“The UK strongly values our partnership with Zimbabwe and stands ready to support further reforms in this regard, through the Commonwealth and other fora.”
The Commonwealth currently comprises 56 countries with historical ties to Britain’s empire, and there has been a push from African nations for Zimbabwe’s return to the grouping.
However, the UK’s stance underscores the ongoing challenges Zimbabwe faces in meeting the Commonwealth’s standards for democracy and governance.
Zim GBC News©2024