ZIMBABWEAN President, Emmerson Mnangagwa, on Tuesday urged stakeholders and the international community to respect the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC’s) recent presidential election results held Dec. 30.

According to the DRC constitutional court, opposition leader Felix Tshisekedi won the country’s presidential run-off on Sunday.

In a statement issued by Presidential spokesperson, George Charamba, President Mnangagwa reiterated his desire to work closely with the incoming administration in the DRC.

President Mnangagwa is the deputy chair of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Co-operation.

The president called on all parties and stakeholders in the DRC to respect the decision of the Constitutional Court.

“He further called on all parties and stakeholders to continue working for peace, stability and unity, which are critical for sustainable development and a better life for all Congolese citizens,” the statement said.

Mnangagwa stressed the need by the international community to uphold and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC in conformity with the SADC Treaty, the Constitutive Act of the AU, and the Charter of the UN.

Similarly, Mnangagwa on Tuesday called for national dialogue to set things right following disturbances that rocked the country last week following the recent hiking of fuel prices.

Mnangagwa urged all political parties, religious and civil leaders to set aside their differences and work for the good of the country.

“What unites us is stronger than what could ever divide us. Let’s begin a national dialogue. Let’s put the economy first. Let’s put the people first,” he wrote on his Facebook page.

He said when he announced measures to stabilise the country’s crucial fuel supply, he was aware that the measures may not be popular. However, it was the right thing to do.

“What followed was regrettable and tragic. Everyone has the right to protest, but this was not a peaceful protest,” he said.

“Likewise, violence or misconduct by our security forces is unacceptable and a betrayal of the new Zimbabwe.

“Chaos and insubordination will not be tolerated. Misconduct will be investigated,” he added.

“Members of the public have accused soldiers and the police of assaulting innocent civilians in the wake of the disturbances that rocked major towns and cities and left at least three people dead, property destroyed and shops looted. (Xinhua/NAN)

– Jan. 22, 2019 @ 16:52 GMT |