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Ivan Zhakata Herald Correspondent

The Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) has joined the nation in congratulating President Mnangagwa for winning last week’s harmonised elections.

In a statement yesterday, the ZNLWVA said national unity of purpose and national dialogue were critical for national development.

“The Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) would like to take this opportunity to express its unequivocal appreciation and congratulation to the nation of Zimbabwe on the exceptional manner in which they held their 2023 general elections,” said the war veterans.

“Besides challenges beyond their control, the elections were a resounding success and the pride of the nation of Zimbabwe.

“Heartiest special congratulation is accorded to our triumphant patron, who is the First Secretary and President of Zanu PF, His Excellency President E.D. Mnangagwa on his re-election to the presidency and Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Force.”

The ZNLWVA said President Mnangagwa’s re-election to serve another five-year term, reflects the trust and confidence that the people of Zimbabwe have in the President’s leadership.

“You have our best and most sincere wishes as you continue on your developmental trajectory pursuant to Vision 2030,” said the ZNLWVA.

They also congratulated those that participated in council and parliamentary elections under Zanu PF.

“We are hopeful that all participants appreciate that, by their nature, elections have losers and winners,” they said.

“It is paramount and a reflection of political maturity that the outcome of the elections are respected and adhered to.”

The war veterans also castigated some election observers who worked outside their parameters, especially those from the West.

“We are aware that the authorities invite them now and again whenever we have elections since our electoral system is transparent and has nothing to hide,” they said.

“However, it is abundantly clear that the aim and objectives of the EU Election Observer Mission is to unseat liberation movements’ governments to foster and perpetuate neo-colonialism and advance white supremacy against the ideals of our independence.

“We have been inviting the EU observer mission ever since, yet at no point have they produced positive statements to assist our electoral processes. Rather, we give them opportunities to meddle with, and demonise our electoral processes as they endeavour to push for their regime change agendas.”

The war veterans added that when Western countries hold their elections, they do not invite Zimbabwe to observe the polls, creating or promoting a “big brother/ world prefect” mentality, which is now haunting international relations and global order.