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Introducing courses on ethics and integrity in the not enough to combat corruption
Zimbabwe Exiles Forum (ZEF)
July 30, 2007

The Zimbabwe Exiles Forum (ZEF) applauds President Thabo Mbeki for his statement yesterday that the March 2008 elections in Zimbabwe should be free and fair. Furthermore, his comment that any government that comes into office after the process should be legitimate and acceptable to all Zimbabweans is a step in the right direction, echoing what most Zimbabweans have been calling for all along. However, ZEF notes with concern that President Mbeki has not touched on one of the fundamental issues surrounding the plebiscite, that is, the inclusion in the process of about five (5) million Zimbabweans who have been driven into exile, and have been subsequently disenfranchised. This inclusion is critical if the result of the coming election is to be acceptable to all Zimbabweans.

Further to the above, ZEF invites President Mbeki to reiterate the importance of the SADC Guidelines in the upcoming election in Zimbabwe. Without minimal standards for free and fair elections being observed in the country, any outcome is bound to be disputed and may lead to further bitterness and polarisation in the country.

Visit the ZEF fact sheet

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