UDC supporters protest Zimbabwe’s alleged interference in Botswana elections, sparking diplomatic tensions ahead of vote.
UDC supporters protested outside Zimbabwe’s Embassy in Botswana, denouncing alleged Zanu PF Party Interference in Botswana’s internal politics ahead of upcoming elections.
The demonstration follows recent allegations of Zanu PF Party Interference backing Botswana’s ruling BDP in the lead-up to the October 30 elections.
Past Accusations Over Zanu PF Party Interference, alleged Support for Botswana’s BDP
According to UDC members, Zanu PF has sent agents to Botswana to assist with election efforts on behalf of the incumbent President Mokgweetsi Masisi and his party, the BDP.
Demonstrators concerns were heightened after Zanu PF’s secretary for legal affairs, Patrick Chinamasa, addressed a series of rallies in Botswana, stirring controversy and suspicion regarding Zimbabwe’s involvement in Botswana’s electoral process.
The UDC, led by Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, sees this as a direct interference, leading its supporters to demand an end to Zanu PF’s alleged influence in Botswana’s affairs.
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At the protest, Dr. Phenyo Butale read out a petition listing the UDC’s grievances and demands, including a call for Zimbabwean authorities to refrain from interfering in Botswana’s domestic matters.
A Zimbabwean media source said the protest was peaceful, with no immediate reports of incidents or violence, although the protesters next move remains uncertain if they fail to get their demands.
In anticipation of the protest, officials at Zimbabwe’s Embassy in Botswana sought police support, requesting protection for Zimbabwean nationals rising fears that tensions might escalate.
Ambassador Henry Mukonoweshuro issued a statement on Friday advising Zimbabweans in Botswana to remain vigilant, given the rising political tensions and claims of Zanu PF’s involvement.
He assured citizens that the Botswana Police Service had guaranteed the safety of all law-abiding individuals, including Zimbabweans, throughout the election period.
“Following recent social media reports alleging possible involvement of Zimbabwean nationals in Botswana’s electoral processes, the Embassy wishes to advise all Zimbabwean nationals resident in Botswana to exercise caution during this election period,” Mukonoweshuro stated, emphasizing that Zimbabweans should not fear going about their daily routines.
Criticism also came from Job Sikhala, former Zimbabwean legislator and current chairman of the National Democratic Working Group (NDWG), who condemned Zanu PF’s alleged meddling in foreign elections.
He noted that Zanu PF’s interference in Botswana’s political affairs jeopardizes the safety of Zimbabweans living abroad.
Sikhala further alleged that the Zanu PF party, led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has previously influenced electoral processes in other regional countries, such as Mozambique and South Africa, where recent elections reportedly saw similar meddling.
