Maseru, August 2, 2023 – Hon. Oppah Charm Zvipange Muchinguri, the Special Envoy of President Dr. Emmerson D. Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe, embarked on a significant visit to Lesotho on August 2, 2023. The visit, as mandated by President Mnangagwa, aimed to foster diplomatic ties and exchange crucial updates.
Hon. Muchinguri, also the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs of Zimbabwe, met with Prime Minister The Right Honourable Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane. The focus of their discussions centered around the upcoming General Elections scheduled for August 23, 2023, in Zimbabwe.
Traditionally, Zimbabwe maintains a practice of engaging with fellow Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states in the lead-up to its general elections. This visit sought to ensure that Lesotho is informed about the measures taken to ensure the success of the forthcoming elections.
Zimbabwe’s last elections in 2018 marked a significant turning point, taking place eight months after the resignation of former President Robert Mugabe. The ruling party, ZANU-PF, secured victory under the leadership of President Mnangagwa.
Formal diplomatic relations between Zimbabwe and Lesotho were established in 1980, resulting in shared membership in various regional and international organizations, including SADC, the African Union (AU), Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), and the United Nations (UN). The two nations have cultivated a strong relationship characterized by mutual respect for sovereignty and non-interference in internal matters.
Both countries are proponents of the reform of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and are united in the pursuit of a united Africa, emphasizing the need for a collective voice on the global stage.
Zimbabwe’s contributions to Lesotho, such as personnel support for the SADC Oversight Committee and the SADC Preventive Mission in Lesotho (SAPMIL), demonstrate their commitment to regional stability and cooperation. Moreover, Zimbabwe offers educational and training opportunities in health and security fields to Basotho.
Lesotho remains steadfast in supporting Zimbabwe, advocating for the lifting of sanctions on the government and specific individuals. This principled stance is highlighted by Lesotho’s dedication to designating October 25th as a day for lifting sanctions on Zimbabwe.
