Madam Speaker, the ACDP is disappointed by the failure of SADC leaders to get tough with the Zanu PF leader, Mr Mugabe, who wants to cling to power at all costs. We know that the Westminster Political System allows the winner of elections to take all, but the SADC leaders seem to want the loser to take all power and control in Zimbabwe.
The ACDP believes the SADC leaders' position that the Ministry of Home Affairs, which has control over the police, be run by two ministers belonging to two political parties defies all logic. We believe that the MDC leader who said, "The concept of co-ministering cannot work", is correct.
The ACDP agrees with the Africa Director of the Human Rights Watch, Georgette Gagnon, that the UN must intervene in the Zimbabwean crisis to ensure that it does not become a threat to regional stability. The SADC leaders have shown that they do not have regard for ordinary Zimbabwean citizens who are suffering. They seem to be only interested in protecting one of their own and it has failed Southern African states one more time. The people expected them to confront Mr Mugabe about the atrocities still being committed by his armed forces and the judicial system that is still against the opposition and civil society despite, the accord having been signed in September.
The ACDP further believes that our leaders should emulate the courage of the Botswana President, Mr Ian Khama, who was courageous enough to take a stand for justice in defence of the Zimbabwean people, by refusing to endorse Mr Mugabe's selfish approach to negotiations. Zimbabwe can never have peace with a cruel dictator at the helm. For peace to prevail, they need a leader who believes in equality, liberty and justice for all. Thank you.