By Community Podium
The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) says the church must use its influence to motivate the masses to behave peacefully, especially during the election period.
The call was made during a three-day Post-Election Reflection Engagement recently held in Lupane.
As the nation fast approaches the 9 December by-elections to be held in Constituencies and Local Authorities whose legislators and councillors were recalled by CCC “interim secretary general” Sengezo Tshabangu in October 2023, the ZCC reiterated its call for free, fair and peaceful elections.
Reverend Bhekinkosi Sibanda of Bubi District said there is a need to reflect on the August 2023 Harmonised Elections to draw lessons and inform strategies aimed at improving democratic processes in Zimbabwe.
“Effective post-election reflection is not about assigning blame or dwelling on grievances. It is about using the outcomes of elections as an opportunity to improve democracy, address voter concerns, and build a more inclusive and participatory society,” said Rev. Sibanda.
Church leaders participated in thoughtful deliberations and exchanged ideas on encouraging communities to move with a renewed commitment to democratic principles and in pursuit of a just and equitable future.
Reverend Flint Mutimbanyoka of Binga concurred with Rev. Sibanda and further highlighted that the engagement is a step towards mapping a way forward for the country’s electoral system.
Reverend Mutimbanyoka said: “Post-election reflection should culminate in a vision for the future, outlining steps to address voter concerns and strengthen democratic processes. It also entails a process of fostering civic engagement, promoting ethical leadership, and upholding the principles of democracy.”
Church leaders also prayed for peaceful by-elections taking into consideration that the church plays a vital role in promoting peace during elections.
Reverend Promise Ngulube called upon members of the ZCC to play their role effectively and efficiently through lobbying for peace, non-violence, civil dialogue and harmony.
In the August 2023 Harmonised Elections, ZCC played a critical role in monitoring the elections and encouraging communities to uphold peaceful conduct while exercising their right to vote. ZCC deployed more than 1 000 election observers across Zimbabwe’s ten provinces during the August 23 Harmonised Elections.
