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for conducting themselves in a peaceful manner during the weekend referendum.
The parties were unanimous that Zimbabweans deserved a thumbs up for shaming the country’s detractors that anticipated a chaotic referendum.
Although the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission is yet to release the referendum results, indications are that the Yes vote triumphed over the No vote and the draft constitution will be confirmed national supreme law.
Zanu-PF spokesperson Cde Rugare Gumbo said his party was humbled by the way its supporters listened to President Mugabe’s plea for peace.
“We are very happy with the way they conducted themselves because they voted peacefully and freely. We want to congratulate the people of Zimbabwe for conducting themselves in an orderly manner,” said Cde Gumbo.
“It is pleasing to note that the referendum had no violence. After announcement of the results the people endorsed draft will be taken to Parliament then from there to the President. He (President Mugabe) will then make a decision of when we should go for the elections.”
MDC-T spokesperson and Copac co-chairperson Mr Douglas Mwonzora, said he was full of praise for the way the electorate conducted themselves.
“We are very happy at the way the referendum was run because it was done in an orderly manner where Zimbabweans across the political divide conducted themselves in an exemplary and extraordinarily mature manner,” said Mr Mwonzora said.
“There was no violence in the referendum itself although there were isolated reports of violence especially in Mbare. If the next elections are run this way then Zimbabwe will be a very good country during elections.”
He hailed women and the youths for coming out in their numbers to vote.
MDC deputy spokesperson Mr Kurauone Chihwayi, hailed Zimbabweans for exhibiting political maturity.
“From what we have gathered no one was forced or intimidated to vote. We congratulate Zimbabweans for the way they behaved and conducted themselves at the referendum.
“They demonstrated political maturity and that Zimbabweans can solve their own problems without seeking external assistance.
“We have just proved that we can move forward as a country. We are happy that Zimbabweans have showed the spirit of togetherness and an understanding that voting should not be used to create enmity among the people,” said Mr Chihwayi.
Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe president Dr Goodwill Shana said Zimbabweans were supposed to maintain the peace that characterised the referendum.
“We would like to see all other national engagements conducted in peace and tolerance while we also hope to heighten the message of peace and tolerance,” said Dr Shana who is also chairperson of the Heads of Christian Denominations.
“If we do that we will put to shame our detractors who say we are headed for a bloodshed poll. We want to conduct our elections in a peaceful manner like we have done with the referendum.
“We want to urge Zimbabweans to pursue peace as instructed by the bible so that we can develop as individuals and as a nation.”
Online Reporter