MDC Alliance says as the next government we cannot call for sanctions against ourselves

The Movement for Democratic Change Alliance is forming the next government next year and as such it cannot call for sanctions against itself.

This was said in a joint statement by Nelson Chamisa and Tendai Biti, the two senior members of the Alliance who went to the United States recently and have been criticised for bad-mouthing the new government of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

“Every Zimbabwean knows our record in patriotism and national duty. Our trip was about, strategic reengagement for reconstruction and economic recovery, opposition repositioning and a call for a return to legitimacy through free, fair and credible elections,” they said.

“This is the only sure route to have all undesirable restrictive measures and other encumbrances against this country jettisoned and lifted.

“Zimbabwe cannot continue to be a pariah state or banana republic. Our nation needs to immediately be back into the glorious family of nations as a people-centered, prosperous and progressive developmental country.

“We mean business. We stand strong. We are serious about forming and being the next government in the next few months. Central to the purpose of our trip, if we are to be the new government we must prepare.

“Being the new and next government we can’t call for sanctions against our government. Strategic reengagement at party and country level is key. The “Mugabe must go” mantra requires we reposition and reframe our message. Reengagement is a Long process. We saw it in the inclusive government. We must start now. We need $15bn for reconstruction.”

Chamisa and Biti said they were on a patriotic duty to ensure that Zimbabwe gets back into business again.

“We went to the US as part of our engagements towards fulfilling these goals. Contrary to propaganda and misinterpretations we did not go to America to call for any measures. We have no control over American policy. If anything we asked the Americans to continue with the humanitarian support they have been giving to Zimbabweans,” they said.

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