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The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has urged political parties to unite and dialogue, insisting that the move will enhance progressive projects that develop the country’s economy.
The ZCC’s remarks come after War Vets Minister and Zanu PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa told journalists after the heavily disputed General elections that Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa should join POLAD if he wishes to dialogue with President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Responding to Mutsvagwa’s proposal after the recall of 15 CCC MP’s by interim party Secretary General Sengezo Tshabangu in Harare, a defiant Chamisa said he wouldn’t join POLAD, labelling it a “ghost institution”.
But speaking at a recent ZCC post elections reflection workshop in Masvingo, a member of the ZCC Supervisory Board, Bishop Mapika, implored political parties to unite and dialogue so that they solve the country’s deep rooted social and economic problems.
“As we engage in this reflection workshop, let us remember the importance of unity and understanding regardless of our political affiliations or differing perspectives. We are united by our shared commitment to the progress and well-being of our community and beyond in the spirit of open dialogue. Let us embrace the diversity of opinions,” he said.
The church’s call for politicians to dialogue and unify the country is not for the first time, as then Robert Mugabe’s government and the Movement for Democratic Change Party (MDC) formed the Government of National Unity (GNU) in February 2009 to end political polarization and violence after disputed general elections in 2008.
Currently, ZCC is traveling across the country’s ten provinces, entrenching a sense of identity and ownership of national programs, embracing President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s vision 2030 agenda.
Over the years, ZCC has made key developmental and peace building discourses that have contributed towards social and nation building.
The ZCC is the largest Christian based organization and plays a pivotal role in the largely Christian country.