As Zimbabwe comes under scrutiny for the arrest of political activists, South Africa has indicated that it cannot influence the decision to move the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit from Harare.
Opposition groups, both within Zimbabwe and in neighboring countries, are calling for Zimbabwe to be removed as the summit’s host due to concerns about its human rights record.
Many opposition members, including notable figures like Jameson Timba, Namatai Kwekweza, and trade union leader Robson Chere, are currently detained. These actions have led to criticism of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is slated to assume the rotational chairmanship of SADC.
The summit is scheduled to be held in Harare on August 17, with a focus on using innovation to drive economic growth and development.
According to a spokesperson from South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), the hosting of the summit is determined by the country leading the bloc.
The process for selecting the host of a Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit is guided by the established practices of the organization. As Zimbabwe is set to take over the chairmanship, it is designated to host the summit.
According to Monyela, South Africa has no authority to prevent the summit from taking place in Harare with Zimbabwe as the incoming chair. Zimbabwe has already hosted preparatory events for the summit, including Industrialization Week and meetings of the Council of Senior Officials.
President Mnangagwa expressed confidence in a successful summit, stating, “The upcoming summit of SADC Heads of State and Government will coincide with our assumption of the Chairmanship of the regional body.”
“Preparations, including the Industrialization Week and meetings of senior officials, are already in progress. I would like to thank all Zimbabweans for their role in maintaining peace throughout our country,” Mnangagwa remarked recently.