President Jacob Zuma says the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) region is committed to providing support to the people of Zimbabwe to resolve the political situation that has arisen.
“A stable and peaceful SADC region is in our best interest, and Zimbabwe is a critical member of our regional community,” said President Zuma, who is also the current Chair of SADC.
The Zimbabwean military has allegedly taken control of State institutions and has confined President Robert Mugabe and his wife to their house, saying that it is targeting criminals in government who are bent on destabilising the country.
President Zuma earlier sent Special Envoys to Zimbabwe and Angola in light of the unfolding situation. The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and the Minister of State Security Bongani Bongo met with President Mugabe and the Zimbabwean Defence Force.
“The envoys had fruitful meetings with President Mugabe, some government Ministers and leaders of the Zimbabwean Defence Force.
“Although it is early days, we are cautiously optimistic that the situation will be resolved amicably. We wish to reiterate our commitment to support the people of Zimbabwe during this difficult period,” President Zuma said.
He reaffirmed the African Union directive against unconstitutional changes in government within the continent, which all SADC member states should abide by.
President Zuma, who was addressing the launch of the InvestSA One Stop Shop in Durban, urged South Africans to support Zimbabweans as the country resolves the unfolding situation.
“We urge all our people to support the Zimbabwean brothers and sisters as they face the current difficult situation in their country.” – SAnews.gov.za
