Zambia Reports Zimbabwe to SADC & AU over ED's Remarks
In a meeting with Russia's Putin, ED accused the US of using Zambia to isolate Zimbabwe in the region
Zambia Reports Zimbabwe to SADC & AU over ED's Remarks
The Zambian government has officially appealed to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU) for assistance in resolving an escalating diplomatic dispute with neighbouring Zimbabwe.
Zambia-Zimbabwe Diplomatic Row Deepens
This appeal comes in the wake of comments made by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa during a recent visit to Russia, which Zambia’s Foreign Minister, Mulambo Haimbe, has characterized as a significant affront to Zambia’s national sovereignty.
During a televised meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, President Mnangagwa accused the United States of utilizing Zambia as a strategic tool to isolate Zimbabwe within the region. Mnangagwa’s comments have sparked considerable concern and debate in Zambia, with the government viewing these remarks as an unfounded and serious allegation against its foreign policy and international alliances.
Foreign Minister Haimbe addressed the issue before the Zambian Parliament today, emphasizing the need for immediate and decisive action from regional bodies to address what he termed an “unwarranted attack on Zambia’s sovereignty.”
Zambia Reports Zimbabwe to SADC & AU over ED's Remarks
Haimbe stated that Zambia expects both the SADC and the AU to facilitate a thorough and conclusive resolution to the diplomatic rift. He expressed confidence that these organizations, which are integral to regional stability and cooperation, would take the necessary steps to mediate the dispute effectively.
“The statements made by President Mnangagwa are not only baseless but also damaging to the spirit of unity and mutual respect that underpins our regional cooperation,” Haimbe remarked. “We call upon SADC and the AU to address this matter decisively and conclusively to preserve the integrity of our regional partnerships.”
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The root of the dispute traces back to Mnangagwa’s assertions regarding the presence of a United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) office in Lusaka. Mnangagwa suggested that this military cooperation could pose a security threat to Zimbabwe and the broader region. This claim was met with swift rebuttal from Zambian officials, who argue that AFRICOM’s presence is intended to bolster security and stability, rather than undermine it.
