Over a week has passed after the partial withdrawal of the opposition party (MDC) from the unity government. While ZANU (PF) dismissed the crisis as a storm in a tea cup, regional leaders were united in their view that the situation was serious and warranted their intervention. They acted swiftly by sending an envoy of ministers to assess the situation. Thereafter they sent the Chair of the region, President Kabila from DRC, to meet with the parties and this week they have set up an urgent meeting of regional leaders to address the crisis.
This move by regional leaders represents a major shift in their approach to Zimbabwe. They are no longer ambivalent but are now confrontational and intentional about ensuring that the conditions of the unity government which they are guarantors of are implemented. Hopefully this signals a new era of political accountability in the region. Let us continue to pray for Zimbabwe and the region during this time.
Nontando Hadebe, a former Sojourners intern, is originally from Zimbabwe and is now pursuing graduate studies in theology in South Africa.
Got something to say about what you're reading? We value your feedback!