Linda Masarira, the head of Labour, Economists and African Democrats (LEAD), claims that a power-sharing arrangement might aid in reducing political tension in the nation following last week’s disputed elections.
Following the disputed 2008 elections, which were marked by significant violence directed at supporters of the opposition, Zimbabwe had a unity government from 2009 until 2013.
As a result of the 2008 election being deemed invalid, Zanu PF, the party of late President Robert Mugabe, was forced to establish a coalition government with the opposition.
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Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has steadfastly refused to concede defeat following the declaration of Emmerson Mnangagwa as the victor of last week’s presidential election.
“As a political party that was involved in the elections, LEAD proposed that since the elections stand disputed the only way forward is an all-inclusive power-sharing arrangement,” said Masarira whose bid to contest the presidential election was frustrated by the exorbitant nomination fees charged by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission.
“The LEAD proposed power-sharing arrangement aims to reduce the risk of continued political polarisation and possibility of civil conflict by guaranteeing all political parties and civil societies a role in the Zimbabwean government, directly or indirectly, thus lessening the stakes of political contestation.
“In this way, the proposed power-sharing will reduce the risk that spoilers will resort to violence if they do not succeed in the process of democratic electoral contestation.”
Zanu PF has indicated its readiness to work with the opposition, although CCC leader Nelson Chamisa insists on a re-run.
“The signing of the power-sharing agreement and its subsequent approval by the country’s Legislature and implementation has to contribute in reducing the violence that may engulf the country after the elections,” Masarira said.
“Power-sharing governments as a post-election conflict management mechanism serve as a viable alternative to violence following electoral disputes.”
