Zimpapers Logo

Takudzwa Chiwereweshe Mutare Correspondent
THE Zimbabwe Churches Council (ZCC) has urged all political parties participating in the 2018 harmonised elections to desist from engaging in violence, hate speech and divisions during the electiionperiod.

Speaking at the launch of the Manicaland Ecumenical Election Covenant, ZCC coordinator Reverend Canon Abel Joseph Waziweyi urged all politicians and aspiring candidates to exercise discipline and restraint during the period and not to endorse, support or facilitate intra- or inter-party violence.

“We are tired of political parties that come into our communities to sow seeds of division, polarisation and hate,” he said.

He encouraged parties to take adequate measures to address inter- and intra-party violence, as well as clearly outline and effect disciplinary action for errant politicians or aspiring candidates who support violence for selfish gains at the expense of the people.

He called for a people-centred and more humane politics that is premised on the stimulation of economic growth, improvement of social services as well as respect for human  rights.

“As they craft their manifestos and campaign promises, political parties need to prioritise incorporating economic frameworks that stimulate growth while unlocking the potential of the informal sector, create jobs for our young people and effect urgent actions to address the scourge of corruption in all our institutions,” said Rev Waziweyi .

ZCC programmes officer Mr Tinashe Gumbo urged political parties to mainstream gender issues into their political structures as well as take initiatives to enhance greater participation and involvement of women during this election period.

“We acknowledge that male dominance in our politics continues to marginalise the voices and interests of women and girls who are the majority, but we hope this season will be different with our women and girls participating and contributing in mainstream politics.

“We are lobbying for equity of women across all platforms as well as fairer access to resources, opportunities and public services and we hope this elective period will be characterised by gender parity in the allocation of political opportunities and resources within political parties,” Mr Gumbo said.

He appealed to all stakeholders to be tolerant and choose candidates who are competent and blessed with clear visions on how to improve social service delivery.