Question 5
Mr M B Skosana (IFP) to ask the Deputy President:
(1) (a) What is the government's standpoint on the insistence of the Zimbabwean Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) that there must be political, social, economic, media and electoral reforms preceding general elections in that country and
(b) on what is this standpoint based;
(2) whether he will make a statement in this regard?
Reply:
The three Zimbabwean political parties that comprise the inclusive government are bound by the global political agreement to lead the country in a Constitution making process, which is underway. The draft constitution will be subjected to a referendum leading to the elections.
Meanwhile, the parties have agreed to a set of measures, which were negotiated among the three parties. Those measures, including Commissions on Human Rights; Elections; Media; Land Audit; Anti-corruption and Constitutional Amendment 19 which gave birth to the inclusive government, are instruments that are designed to level the political playing fields.
The reforms that the Honourable Member refers to are part of the process that is already unfolding in Zimbabwe.
As South Africa we appreciate these developments which must lead to a free and fair election, whose outcome will be credible and hopefully accepted by all.
I thank you.
