Mondale backs ‘fair elections’

The Rhodesia Herald, December 5, 1977

WASHINGTON. — THE United States Vice-President, Mr Walter Mondale, says fair elections in Rhodesia could provide “a good hope for peaceful and democratic government”.

He also said in an interview yesterday that the US administration had found no evidence that the mercenaries were being recruited in the United States to fight Africa, Iana-AP reports.

Such recruiting was illegal, he said “and if we find anybody doing it, they will be prosecuted”.

On Rhodesia, he said: “We think there is a chance of establishing a new government based on honest election of majority rule that will provide a good hope for peaceful and democratic government there.”

But for this to occur there would have to be a transitional arrangement “that is honest and has integrity”, providing “elections that are fair” in which everyone could take part.

Administration officials had spoken with the leaders of each of the frontline nations directly involved in Southern Africa.

“We have put in an extraordinary amount of time and will continue to do so, working internationally towards a resolution of dispute in Rhodesia,” he said.

LESSONS FOR TODAY

Walter Mondale served as the Vice President of the United States from 1977 to 1981 under President Jimmy Carter. His tenure was marked by a focus on democratic governance, particularly in regions experiencing political turmoil.

Mondale’s administration was characterised by a commitment to supporting a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). This included backing efforts for constitutional reforms that would lead to free elections and ultimately independence for the country.

Mondale’s assertion that free and fair elections could provide hope for peaceful and democratic governance is rooted in the belief that inclusive electoral processes are a pre-requisite to establishing legitimate governments.

Ultimately, Mondale’s tenure coincided with significant changes leading up to Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980, following years of conflict and negotiation involving multiple stakeholders both within Rhodesia and internationally.