onlinemedia
Mukudzei Chingwere in DODOMA, Tanzania
Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga has rebuked the post-election violence that has engulfed Tanzania, describing it as archaic and unacceptable in 21st-century political contestation.
Dr Chiwenga was speaking after witnessing the inauguration of Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan here.
He attended as President Mnangagwa’s representative.
The VP spoke of Zimbabwe’s pain in seeing disturbances in Tanzania, a sisterly republic with an indelible mark in the history of Zimbabwe’s fight for independence.
“We see the situation in Tanzania, and it is quite disturbing,” said VP Chiwenga, “It is something that has to be avoided at all costs.
“Fighting is not something we should talk about in the 21st century. However, I believe Tanzania has come of age. We want to see them coming together as highlighted by all speakers at the inauguration,” he said.
President Suluhu said she is committed to seeing an end to the disturbances.
“Violence is not part of our culture, what happened is not a true reflection of what we are as a people. Now we must work together for development.”
Her sentiments were also echoed by Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema who spoke on the need for peace.
“When there is violence, there is no development,” said the Zambian leader.
“One life lost is one too many. I was in opposition for many years, and God’s time is always the best. To President Samia, you are now the President even for those who did not vote for you,” said President Hichilema.
In his congratulatory message to President Suluhu, President Mnangagwa said he hopes the fraternal relationship between the two countries will flourish.
“I would like to reaffirm my commitment to working closely with you, Your Excellency, to further strengthen and deepen the strong bonds of friendship and solidarity between our two countries and people,” said President Mnangagwa in his message.
“I also look forward to continuing working with you at the regional, continental and multilateral fora on issues of mutual interest and concern,” he said.
Online Reporter