NERA Calls Mnangagwa To Order Over Plans To Postpone Polls – Eduzim News

By A Correspondent| The National Elections Reform Agenda (NERA) has strongly condemned recent discussions suggesting a delay in the 2028 general elections, warning that such proposals would be a direct assault on Zimbabwe’s democratic principles.

In a statement, NERA convener Irene Muyenziwa, labeled the suggestion to extend the election timeline to 2030 as a blatant affront to democracy and governance in the country.

“Such considerations are not only a blatant affront to our democratic principles, but also a direct challenge to the essence of governance in Zimbabwe,” Muyenziwa said, adding that the notion disregards the voice of the people and undermines the very foundation of democracy.

Muyenziwa highlighted that Zimbabwe’s focus should be on implementing meaningful electoral reforms that guarantee free, fair, and peaceful elections, not on delaying the democratic process.

Muyenziwa’s remarks come at a time when certain factions within the ruling party and opposition groups have expressed support for postponing the upcoming elections.

While President Emmerson Mnangagwa has publicly pledged to respect the Constitution and refrain from extending his tenure beyond 2028, Muyenziwa warned that proposals to extend the election timeline could set a dangerous precedent, undermining public confidence in the electoral system.

“As the current Chair of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), Zimbabwe holds a position of significant influence. Delaying elections would not only undermine public confidence in our electoral process but also cast serious doubts on our commitment to accountability and governance,” she said.

Muyenziwa urged all political stakeholders, civil society organizations, and the public to focus on the urgent need for electoral reforms.

She called for reforms that enhance citizen participation, promote voter education, and advocate for legal and policy changes that align with democratic principles.

“The time for genuine political will and comprehensive electoral reforms is now.

“We must prioritize the enhancement of citizen
participation, promotion of voter education, and advocacy for legal and policy reforms that align with democratic principles,” she said

NERA, a coalition of political parties, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders, remains firm in its commitment to advancing democratic governance in Zimbabwe.

Muyenziwa insists that the future of the nation lies in upholding citizens’ rights to choose their leaders through credible elections, rather than through the postponement of their voices.

“We cannot allow fear or political maneuvering to dictate our democratic destiny. We call upon all stakeholders to reject any proposals that seek to delay our elections and to unite in the pursuit of an electoral system that is transparent, inclusive, and accountable,” Muyenziwa said.

She reiterated NERA’s call for a renewed focus on electoral integrity, urging all Zimbabweans to ensure that democracy remains a living reality for every citizen, not just an ideal on paper.

“The future of our nation depends on the choices we make today,” Muyenziwa said

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