Zimbabwe is a failed state and here is Anton Chekhov's read of "the nature of a failed society". W Mukori

 THE NATURE OF A FAILED SOCIETY

When asked the Russian writer Anton Chekhov about the nature of failed societies, he replied: 

"In failed societies, there are a thousand fools for each successful brain and a thousand clumsy words to counter each good advice. 

"The majority are always dumb, ill-informed, egoistic and constantly dominating the rational and intelligent ones.

"They love trivializing important issues to distract them from facing their reality.

"They love holding meeting upon meetings but ensuring that each meeting is turned to throwing banters and cracking jokes to prevent diligent scrutiny of issues.

"They are led by cliques, cabals and a few unserious individuals, while the majority are disenchanted, disgruntled and uninterested.

"They're like a cult group where the gangsters are the majority.

"They thrive on extorting from a few among them who have overbloated egos and always seeking for public attention, without knowing they're being used. It's called a society of pacifiers and nonentities.

"Trivial matters are always at centre stage, and any attempt to make them face their real challenges are opposed and vehemently resisted. They're constantly living in denial. 

"An example of a failed society is where, millions of people crowd themselves together every time, dancing and repeating meaningless songs and words to themselves, and turning that to a societal culture.

"In failed societies, everyone have their own opinions, which are never articulated. It's a society where constructive, sound, and workable ideas are constantly being suppressed for the mischievous cabal to keep being the dominant force.

"In failed societies, it's favoritism and rewards for patronage that's popular, while merit is sabotaged. Also, it's characterized by injustices and praise singing.

"Such societies thrive on information hoarding and secret keeping as leadership accountability is regarded as a privilege and not a right. Open conversations are frowned at and regarded as an attack against leadership. Demanding for leadership accountability is forbidden.

"Gang leaders love to quote laws in the society that's actually lawless and governed through caucus decisions. The minority are always pretending to be the majority. 

"Divide and rule, rumour mongering, emotional blackmail, are the readily tools for governance. Those with honest intentions for promoting the culture of common good are quickly labelled as saboteurs and isolated, so they don't corrupt the dormant majority.

"Genuine contributors and solution providers are not known and no one gives them credit for their efforts. Failed societies lack the attitude of gratitude.

"Since the crowd love pettiness and mundane things, they love those telling them it's okay not to use their own brains to think for themselves, and prefer comedian that make them laugh with meaningless jokes, than the poet who is waking them up to reality and telling them the truth that temporarily hurts. 

"Therefore, the caucus leadership called ’democracy' is not an ideal leadership model for ignorant people and unenlightened societies, because the corrupt minority will keep deciding their fate. The people must seek their own salvation and redemption from within themselves before yielding to leadership. In constructive leadership, one is not above the others, one is a member from within the body."

How true!

There is nothing wrong with universal suffrage, every one must have the right to a meaningful say in the governance of their country. The operative phrase here is "meaningful say". How can you have a meaningful say on matters you do not understand? 

The ancient Greeks, who gave mankind democracy - government of the people, for the people and by the people - all these 2 500 years ago; were right, democracy only works if the people are educated, knowledgeable, objective and diligent in their sacred duty of holding leaders to account. 

In Zimbabwe the populous are ignorant, naive and gullible and, no wonder, they have failed in their duty to hold leaders to account. The ruling elite have deliberately kept the masses ignorant and naive for the selfish purpose of conning the masses and avoid accountability.

Like it or not, in a country whose founding fathers only cared about absolute power and personal glory and did not care about democracy and good governance, universal suffrage has been a curse and not a blessing! And once established a failed state is hard to uproot; after 45 years, Zimbabwe's autocracy is deep rooted.

The evil that men do lives after them and not interred with the bones. The evil of 2008 electoral coup must be remembered forever!

 By Political Reporter- The Zanu PF government has declared Brigadier General (Retired) Victor Rungani a national hero, sparking outrage over the state’s continued glorification of men with blood-soaked legacies.

Rungani, who led a reign of terror in Mashonaland East during the infamous 2008 presidential run-off, died Tuesday in Harare after a short illness.

His hero status was announced by State Security Minister Lovemore Matuke at the Rungani family farm in Goromonzi, where relatives and community members had gathered.

Rungani was not just a soldier—he was one of the late President Robert Mugabe’s most feared enforcers. 

In 2008, after Mugabe lost the first round of the presidential election to Morgan Tsvangirai, Rungani was deployed as part of a brutal military operation designed to reverse the outcome through sheer terror.

At the time, he was Director of the Zimbabwe National Army’s Engineering and Military Equipment Directorate. But instead of building bridges, Rungani was tasked with breaking spirits. 

In Mashonaland East, he orchestrated mass beatings, abductions, and killings of MDC supporters—personally directing torture sessions and re-education camps known as pungwes.

His actions were part of a nationwide scorched-earth campaign coordinated by the Joint Operations Command (JOC), the shadowy military cabal that hijacked Zimbabwe’s electoral process under the guise of defending national sovereignty.

State media, however, glossed over this dark history—reporting only that Rungani died at Mbuya Dorcas Hospital and praising his role in military engineering.

No mention was made of the blood on his hands.

Born in Bikita, Masvingo province, Rungani was one of several senior commanders who turned villages into killing fields. 

He operated alongside a terrifying cast of military men: Major General Engelbert Rugeje (Masvingo), Brigadier General David Sigauke (Mashonaland West), Brigadier General Douglas Nyikayaramba (Manicaland), Air Vice Marshal Abu Basutu (Matabeleland South), Air Vice Marshal Henry Muchena (Harare), Brigadier General Sibusiso Moyo (Midlands), Brigadier General Sibangumuzi Khumalo (Matabeleland North), Brigadier General Etherton Shungu (Mashonaland Central), Colonel Chris Sibanda (Bulawayo), and Air Commodore Mike Tichafa Karakadzai (Harare).

Together, backed by the Central Intelligence Organisation and more than 80,000 youth militia, they launched a nationwide campaign of violence that ultimately forced Tsvangirai to withdraw from the run-off.

This campaign was not only political—it was deeply personal, systematic, and savage.

It left hundreds dead, thousands injured or raped, and entire communities traumatised.

While Rungani’s death closes one chapter, it reopens another a chapter of unanswered questions and unhealed wounds. 

It reminds Zimbabweans that the men who destroyed democracy and violated the people have never been brought to justice.

Rungani’s name, like those of his fellow commanders, may now appear in the National Heroes Acre—but in the hearts of many Zimbabweans, it is etched in infamy."

The evil that men do lives after them; The good is oft interrèd with their bones

“The evil that men do lives after them; The good is oft interrèd with their bones” is a quote spoken by Mark Antony. It appears to be about Caesar but is actually about Brutus.

Surprised at US$ 20m bribe Chamisa reportedly received but not surprised he sold out - it's common knowledge. W Mukori

 I am not surprised to hear from Jealousy Mawarire that Nelson Chamisa sold out to Zanu PF; the evidence of MDC/CCC betrayal has been there for all to see! The surprise is the payout Chamisa received!

"In the audio, Nero (Chamisa) admits he has 'no table manners' thus he needed ED (Mnangagwa) to restrain him from over looting if he won the elections," Mawarire wrote on X. "Since he lost the 2023 elections, the obligation lies with ED to look after Chamisa."

"When we talk of $20m that Mukomana was given, we aren't delusional. We know there is that arrangement between the two to look after each other.” 

Jealousy Mawarire has made many shocking revelations in the past and many have turned out to be true. The surprise here is payout Chamisa received for his Judas Iscariot kiss!

The people of Zimbabwe do not need rumours from Mawarire to KNOW the MDC/CCC leaders are sellouts. Morgan Tsvangirai and his banded mongoose friends have failed to implement even one token reform in 25 years 5 of which in the GNU when they had the golden opportunity to do so. 

Chamisa lied that “MDC A has stringent measures to stop Zanu PF rigging the 2018 elections” to con his supporters to participate in the flawed election. He knew that Zanu PF was rigging the elections and that participating would give the regime legitimacy. He and his mangoes friends also knew that Zanu PF was giving away a few gravy train seats to entice the opposition to participate. They found the bait irresistible!

Chamisa repeated the same idiotic lie for the same selfish reason in 2023. “I have plugged all the Zanu PF vote rigging loop holes. #Godisinit!” he even evoke the name of God!

It is no secret that the MDC/CCC has been Zanu PF team B is all but name - participating in flawed elections to make sure team A win and has political legitimacy. David Coltart admitted all these things in his book. 

“The (2013) electoral process was so flawed, so illegal, that the only logical step was to withdraw, which would compel SADC to hold Zanu PF to account. But such was the distrust between the MDC-T and MDC-N that neither could withdraw for fear that the other would remain in the elections, winning seats and giving the process credibility,” confessed David Coltart in his Book, The Struggle Continues 50 years of Tyranny in Zimbabwe. 

Whilst the few MDC/CCC leaders who did win the gravy train seats got the US$60 000 car generous salary and allowance, etc. Tsvangirai/Chamisa/Mwonzora/Khupe, as leader of the MDC/CCC, would got the 20% of the Political Party Finance Act payout. If Mawarire’s claims are factual, then Chamisa got a lot more for selling out the nation! 

Any one with half a brain would not be surprised MDC/CCC leaders sold out, the only surprise here is payout each of the banded mongooses received! And the heavy price the nation has paid for this blatant betrayal! 

But worst of all, is the tragic reality that millions of Zimbabweans out there remain ignorant of the blatant MDC/CCC leaders’ betrayal and hence the reason why the nation has continued to sink into the abyss. Nation get the government they deserve and we certainly deserve this Zanu PF dictatorship complete with its entourage of corrupt and utterly useless MDC/CCC side kicks. 

A healthy and functioning democracy demands that the people be educated, knowledgeable, objective and they must be diligent in carrying out their sacred duty of holding leaders to democratic account. Zimbabweans are ignorant, naive and gullible and hence the reason why they are so easily conned into believing idiotic lies time and time again.

If MDC/CCC leaders had implemented the democratic reforms timeously Zimbabwe would have put an end to the curse of rigged elections and bad governance by 2013, at the latest. Alas! That was not to be. MDC/CCC leaders sold out and the nation is paying dearly for it! Millions are living in abject poverty and many have suffered and died, millions more will suffer and die for generations to come. 

Is the blatant betray of millions of innocent Zimbabweans, condemned to suffer and die under the Zanu PF dictatorship, worth the gravy train seats, US$ 60 000 car and US$20 million bribe? I ask!

Mnangagwa step up the sporadic issuing of title deeds in urban centres. Rural peasants must wait - perhaps never. W Mukori

 The Government has intensified efforts to issue title deeds in residential areas across Zimbabwe, a move President Mnangagwa says will guarantee security of tenure and legal property ownership for thousands of citizens. The initiative, spearheaded through the Kwangu/Ngakwami Presidential Title Deeds Programme, will see over 7,000 title deeds issued this month alone in suburbs such as Epworth, Chitungwiza, Southlea Park, and Glenwood.

Speaking during the 45th Independence Day celebrations at Mutora Open Grounds in Gokwe last Friday, President Mnangagwa said the rollout complements Zimbabwe's Land Reform Programme and aims to empower both urban homeowners and farmers.

"It is worth noting that this year's Independence celebration is occurring after the consolidation of our land reform through the issuance of title deeds to both A1 and A2 farmers, including veterans of the liberation struggle," said President Mnangagwa. "My Government is also stepping up efforts to regularise both old and new settlements in cities and towns throughout the country. These programmes are set to assure citizens security of tenure and ownership of their properties through title deeds.”

The real tragedy here is that the buffoon thinks he is doing the Zimbabweans a great favour “giving” them what the regime has denied the people all these years - their right to own property! He even makes a big song and dance about it; “presidential Title Deeds Programme”! 

Everything has become presidential! Presidential Youth Fund, Presidential war veterans housing fund, Teachers4ED, Varakashi4ED, etc., etc.The glory of Mnangagwa is all that matters and so the nation is having to suffer so that when Mnangagwa does anything to alleviate the suffering, even when he is the one who inflicted it in the first place, he is given credit for it. 

It is no secrete that Zanu PF is denying title deeds to the rural peasants for the same selfish political reasons the white colonial regimes denied the same. The whites granted title deeds to urban dwellers, Zanu PF has extended the right sporadically with political steel-ropes attached, as 7 000 recipients of the Title Deeds will learn soon enough.

Only God knows when the rural peasants will ever be granted the right to own even 20 square metres of land on which their mud hut stand. The right to own land is the one freedom and right that would mean everything to these people and yet this is the one thing Zanu PF continues to be deny them! This is the price the nation is paying for being ruled by buffoons.

NTA's task is to restore the people's right to free elections and hold leaders to account and stop the tail wagging the dog! W Mukori

 

Belling The Cat

by Aesop

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The Mice once called a meeting to decide on a plan to free themselves of their enemy, the Cat. At least they wished to find some way of knowing when she was coming, so they might have time to run away. Indeed, something had to be done, for they lived in such constant fear of her claws that they hardly dared stir from their dens by night or day.

Many plans were discussed, but none of them was thought good enough. At last a very young Mouse got up and said:

"I have a plan that seems very simple, but I know it will be successful. All we have to do is to hang a bell about the Cat's neck. When we hear the bell ringing we will know immediately that our enemy is coming."

All the Mice were much surprised that they had not thought of such a plan before. But in the midst of the rejoicing over their good fortune, an old Mouse arose and said:

"I will say that the plan of the young Mouse is very good. But let me ask one question: Who will bell the Cat?"

It is one thing to say that something should be done, but quite a different matter to do it.

This tale is so simple and yet speaks volumes of the dilemma the nation is facing - how will the nation wrestle power from this Zanu PF regime that is now so powerful and the people so helpless the equivalence of cat and mice is not at all off the mark. 

The first correction one must make here is to explain the masses must not be fooled by the thugs’ posturing and bravado; the thugs are no more human beings than anyone of the masses. Mnangagwa has the Army, Police, ZEC, Judiciary and even the opposition members in his deep pockets. Yes he has used the nation’s looted wealth to bribe the various players to do his dirty bidding of looting the nation blind, rigging elections and terrorising the people  thugs to give himself and Zanu PF this aura of invincibility. 

Still, he is human and NOT the all power cat before us powerless mice.

In a healthy and functioning democracy the leaders are accountable to the people and yet here we have a situation in which the ruling elite are calling all the shots and we, the people, tremble in fear before them. The tail is wagging the dog!

Zanu PF thugs have usurped the people’s democratic right to free, fair and credible elections, the only sure way the people can fulfil their sacred duty as citizen of holding leaders to account. 

The only sure way to end the Zanu PF dictatorship by wrestling back the right to free, fair and credible elections that Zanu PF has systematically denied the people all these last 45 years. There have been many opportunities to wrestle this right back, notably during the 2008 to 2013 GNU. 

The way forward for Zimbabwe entails understand why the 2008 to 2013 GNU offered the best chance ever to end the Zanu PF dictatorship and why nothing was accomplish. If people who fail to learn from the past are doomed to repeat the same foolish mistakes over and over again.

The NTA being proposed by Dr Ibbo Mandaza is but a variation of the 2008 to 2013 GNU and its primary task will be to implement the democratic reforms Morgan Tsvangirai & Co. failed to implement. Indeed one of the demands for the NTA to work is that all those involved in the 2008 GNU cannot play any major part in the new arrangement; if they failed to implement even one token reform in 5 years it will be naive to expect them to do any better now.

Mandaza calls for National Transition Authority - without educated voters, its doomed to fail

 “Let me be clear: Zimbabwe's crisis will not be solved by another election. What we face is not merely a political problem but a comprehensive national emergency requiring a fundamental reset.

Through a series of SAPES Trust Policy Dialogues and consultations with diverse stakeholders, we have crystallised a proposal that has gained remarkable momentum across political and social divides: The convening of an All-Stakeholders Conference to seek a durable solution to Zimbabwe's decades old crisis.

Central to this proposal is the establishment of a National Transitional Authority (NTA) to prepare the ground for a durable peace and national prosperity.

This is not a coup by other means, nor is it an attempt to subvert democracy.

Rather, it is a recognition that democracy itself requires institutional foundations that have been systematically eroded in Zimbabwe.

We propose a time-limited intervention to rebuild these foundations before returning to electoral politics.

The NTA would replace both executive and legislature for three to five years with a singular mandate: undertaking the comprehensive reforms necessary to restore Zimbabwe to stability and set the stage for genuine democracy.

 Its composition would be strictly non-partisan — respected Zimbabweans from home and abroad with demonstrated integrity and competence, who would be barred from seeking political office for five years following their service.

Critics will ask: Why not simply push for free and fair elections? The answer is painfully evident. Our electoral system has been so compromised that even technically "free" elections cannot yield legitimate outcomes.

The judiciary has been politicised, security services weaponized, media captured, and electoral bodies compromised.

Elections under these conditions merely recycle our problems rather than addressing them.

We propose that the NTA's mandate focus on four critical areas:

First, restoring constitutional governance and rebuilding respect for our constitution across all institutions.

Second, reforming key institutions - particularly the judiciary, security sector, and electoral commission - to guarantee their independence and professionalism.

Third, transforming our electoral framework to ensure future elections are not just free but legitimate and uncontested.

Finally, stabilising our economy through comprehensive reforms addressing debt, monetary policy, land rights, and productive capacity.

This is not a partisan agenda. It is an agenda that puts Zimbabwe first. The proposed reforms would benefit citizens across political divides by creating a functional state that delivers for all rather than enriching a few.

Some will question whether such a transition is possible without the consent of the current power-holders.

This is a legitimate concern, but not an insurmountable obstacle. International experience shows that when citizen pressure combines with regional and international support, even entrenched regimes can accede to transitional arrangements — particularly when their own long-term interests are better served by orderly transition than chaotic collapse.

Our proposal begins with a convening of an All-Stakeholders National Conference bringing together citizens committed to national renewal, followed by a structured national dialogue to define the transition framework, culminating in a political settlement that scaffolds the NTA.

The church and Zimbabwe's diaspora will play a crucial role. Our scattered children carry not just remittances but skills, connections, and perspectives vital to national regeneration.

The NTA would create channels for their meaningful participation in rebuilding the country many were forced to leave.

Let me address potential skeptics directly: Is this proposal idealistic? Perhaps. But "realistic" approaches have delivered us to our current catastrophe.

Is it ambitious? Certainly. But Zimbabwe's challenges demand nothing less than ambitious solutions.

The alternative to bold action is not stability but continued decline. Our economy cannot sustain further deterioration.

Our youth cannot endure more years of joblessness and hopelessness. Our institutions cannot withstand further erosion of legitimacy and capacity.

Zimbabwe's potential remains extraordinary — abundant resources, strategic location, and most importantly, talented and resilient people.

What we lack is not capacity but leadership, national vision and a governance framework that harnesses rather than squanders this potential.

The moment for half-measures has passed. Zimbabwe requires fundamental transformation.

The All-Stakeholders Conference we propose and the resultant National Transitional Authority offers a pathway — not to utopia, but to a functional state where citizens' basic needs are met, rights respected, and future secured.

The choice before us is stark: bold renewal or continued decline. For the sake of generations past who sacrificed for this nation, and generations yet unborn who deserve to inherit its promise, let us choose renewal.

Will this be easy? Of course, not because of entrenched interests in the ruling party, business and the opposition. If it was easy, it would have been done long ago.

*Ibbo Mandaza is the convenor of the National Steering Committee for a New Zimbabwe and director of the Southern African Political Economy Series Trust.”

I totally agree that Zimbabwe's crisis will not be solved by another “contested”election. The question that you must ask yourself is; Who are these people who have “contested” the elections time and time again?

Answer: MDC/CCC leaders and their brain dead followers! The former failed to implement even one token reform in 25 years including the 5 GNU years and have been participating in flawed elections out of greed. They have conned their followers top participate telling them they have devised strategies to win RIGGED elections. The brain dead mob have believed the idiotic lies even after 45 years of Zanu PF rigging elections?

Alas! Chamisa chete chete brigade are brain dead and they number in their millions.

Even if your proposed NTA was to implement all the democratic reforms. With an electorate with an overwhelming number of brain-dead voters; how long will that democratic system last before we revert back to the present failed totalitarian autocracy? 

We need to educate the voters, an ignorant, naive and gullible electorate is a curse to democracy. We are not ready for a healthy and functioning democracy.  

"Let us be brutally honest with each other, Zimbabwe," Trevor Ncube! Yes, we got the government we deserve!

 By Trevor Ncube

Let us be brutally honest with each other, Zimbabwe.

Day after day, we wake up and survive by sheer grit. We build, we hustle, we mend what’s broken—and we dare to hope. But we do it all alone. The Emmerson Mnangagwa government that taxes us to the bone offers little in return. No safety nets. No functioning systems. Just abuse, slogans and insults.

Where exactly are our taxes going?

Our roads have become obstacle courses. Potholes deep enough to bury your tyres—or your dreams. Bridges sway on broken backs. Urban streets, once a mark of pride, now resemble dusty, crumbling trails. And our hospitals? Ghosts of what they once were. If you want real treatment, you need a private doctor and deep pockets. The public infrastructure and services have collapsed.

We make plans to find clean water. We drill our own boreholes, or buy it—if we can afford it. Even poor people in the townships are pooling resources to drill boreholes. We generate our own electricity, lighting our homes with solar power, gas stoves, or firewood. ZESA, when it shows up, is more of a surprise than a service. We secure our homes with private security guards, tall walls, alarms—not because crime is gone, but because the police have been repurposed. Their mission? Protect the regime, not the people. Is that not the textbook definition of tyranny?

We pay our taxes—individuals and companies alike. We comply with numerous levies, tolls, licensing fees. And yet we receive nothing in return. So again: where is the money going?

Into the pockets of the many thieves around President Mnangagwa. They flaunt the proceeds of the loot without shame. Into shiny SUVs, first-class flights, private jets, and luxury mansions in leafy suburbs. Into patronage networks that feed the egos of a political elite that has grown fat while the rest of the nation starves. Into the hands of those same police who harass vendors and beat protesters—not to protect Zimbabwe, but to protect the power of a few from the anger of the many. Is this not tyranny?

Meanwhile, poverty crushes us. Dreams shrivel before they can bloom. Teenage pregnancies soar. Drug abuse has spiraled beyond problem—it’s now a national crisis. Our children are not dropping out of school because they lack ambition, but because they lack school fees, support, and hope. Our infrastructure is falling apart, but all we get are rehearsed promises and painted walls of propaganda.

Is this how a government helps its people?

A truly empathetic government would empower its citizens. It would invest in opportunity, not optics. It would enable the youth to dream and build—not just dangle a few dollars to a handpicked few in a sham of empowerment. True empowerment is building a system that serves everyone—not just the campaign-season elite.

And what of our war veterans? Once lionized, now weaponized. They are given boreholes and handouts—not as a tribute, but as a leash. What should be respect has turned into manipulation. Their sacrifice is now a tool for political control.

Zimbabwe, open your eyes.

We are funding our own oppression. We are bankrolling a system that gives back nothing but poverty and propaganda. We are the ones building this nation with our bare hands—while those in power loot it barefaced.

But Zimbabwe is not a lost cause. It is a nation bursting with talent, with resilience, with beauty. It is crying out—not just for better leadership—but for active, courageous, and informed citizens. Citizens who demand accountability. Citizens who defend their rights. From that soil, real opposition will rise. Empathetic leadership will emerge. And with it, a future that honours all.

But that burden, that beautiful burden, begins with each of us.

So I ask you again: Is the Mnangagwa government helping you at all? Or are you surviving in spite of it?

So What Must Happen Now?

Zimbabwe must awaken.

We must organize, not agonize. We must challenge the corruption, not normalize it. Demand transparency. Demand service. Demand dignity. Every Zimbabwean—young and old—must claim back their dreams, speak, resist, and rebuild. Demand quality and respect from all politicians- including those in opposition.

We are not helpless. We are the majority.

It’s time to take back our beautiful motherland.

Nations get the government they deserve and we certainly deserve this corrupt, tyrannical and vote rigging Zanu PF regime complete with its entourage of equally corrupt and useless opposition side-kicks. We cannot say the nation did not have the opportunity to end the Zanu PF dictatorship in the last 45 years; we did and we wasted them all.  

2008 Global Political Agreement signed by Zanu PF, MDC-T and MDC-M and SADC as guarantor

 

AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE ZIMBABWE AFRICAN NATIONAL UNION-PATRIOTIC FRONT (ZANU-PF) AND THE TWO MOVEMENT FOR DEMOCRATIC CHANGE (MDC) FORMATIONS, ON RESOLVING THE CHALLENGES FACING ZIMBABWE

PREAMBLE

We, the Parties to this Agreement;

CONCERNED about the recent challenges that we have faced as a country and the multiple threats to the well-being of our people and, therefore, determined to resolve these permanently.

CONSIDERING our shared determination to uphold, defend and sustain Zimbabwe’s sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and national unity, as a respected member of the international community, a nation where all citizens respect and, therefore, enjoy equal protection of the law and have equal opportunity to compete and prosper in all spheres of life.

ACKNOWLEDGING the sacrifices made by thousands of Zimbabwe’s gallant sons and daughters in the fight against colonialism and racial discrimination and determined to accept, cherish and recognise the significance of the Liberation Struggle as the foundation of our sovereign independence, freedoms and human rights.

DEDICATING ourselves to putting an end to the polarisation, divisions, conflict and intolerance that has characterised Zimbabwean politics and society in recent times.

COMMITTING ourselves to putting our people and our country first by arresting the fall in living standards and reversing the decline of our economy.

EMPHASISING our shared commitment to re-orient our attitudes towards respect for the Constitution and all national laws, the rule of law, observance of Zimbabwe’s national institutions, symbols and national events.

RESPECTING the rights of all Zimbabweans regardless of political affiliation to benefit from and participate in all national programmes and events freely without let or hindrance.

RECOGNISING, accepting and acknowledging that the values of justice, fairness, openness, tolerance, equality, non-discrimination and respect of all persons without regard to race, class, gender, ethnicity, language, religion, political opinion, place of origin or birth are the bedrock of our democracy and good governance.

DETERMINED to build a society free of violence, fear, intimidation, hatred, patronage, corruption and founded on justice, fairness, openness, transparency, dignity and equality.

RECOGNISING and accepting that the Land Question has been at the core of the contestation in Zimbabwe and acknowledging the centrality of issues relating to the rule of law, respect for human rights, democracy and governance.

COMMITTED to act in a manner that demonstrates loyalty to Zimbabwe, patriotism and commitment to Zimbabwe’s national purpose, core values, interests and aspirations.

DETERMINED to act in a manner that demonstrates respect for the democratic values of justice, fairness, openness, tolerance, equality, respect of all persons and human rights.

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SUBMITTING ourselves to the mandate of the Extraordinary Summit of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) held in Dar-es-Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania, on 29th March 2007 and endorsed in Lusaka on 12th April 2008 and in the AU Summit held in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt from 30th June to 1 July 2008.

RECOGNISING the centrality and importance of African institutions in dealing with African problems, we agreed to seek solutions to our differences, challenges and problems through dialogue.

ACKNOWLEDGING that pursuant to the Dar-es-Salaam SADC resolution, the Parties negotiated and agreed on a draft Constitution, initialed by the Parties on 30 September 2007, and further agreed and co-sponsored the enactment of the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Number 18 Act, amendments to the Electoral Act, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission Act, Public Order and Security Act, Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act and Broadcasting Services Act.

APPRECIATING the historical obligation and need to reach a solution that will allow us to put Zimbabwe first and give the people a genuine chance of rebuilding and reconstructing their livelihoods.

PURSUANT to the common desire of working together, the Parties agreed to and executed a Memorandum of Understanding on 21 July 2008, attached hereto as Annexure “A”.

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NOW THEREFORE AGREE AS FOLLOWS: ARTICLE I

DEFINITIONS

1. Definitions

   The “Agreement” shall mean this written Agreement signed by the representatives of ZANU-PF and the MDC, in its two formations (“the Parties”) in fulfillment of the material mandate handed down by the SADC Extraordinary Summit on 29th March 2007 and endorsed by SADC in Lusaka, Zambia and adopted by the African Union Summit in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt.

   The “Parties” shall mean ZANU-PF, the two MDC formations led by Morgan Tsvangirai and Arthur Mutambara respectively.

   The “Government” or “New Government” means the new Government to be set up in terms of this Agreement.

   ARTICLE II DECLARATION OF COMMITMENT

2. Declaration of Commitment

   The Parties hereby declare and agree to work together to create a genuine, viable, permanent, sustainable and nationally acceptable solution to the Zimbabwe situation and in particular to implement the following agreement with the aims of resolving once and for all the current political and economic situations and charting a new political direction for the country.

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ARTICLE III
RESTORATION OF ECONOMIC STABILITY AND GROWTH

3. Economic recovery 3.1 The Parties agree:

1. (a)  to give priority to the restoration of economic stability and growth in Zimbabwe. The Government will lead the process of developing and implementing an economic recovery strategy and plan. To that end, the parties are committed to working together on a full and comprehensive economic programme to resuscitate Zimbabwe’s economy, which will urgently address the issues of production, food security, poverty and unemployment and the challenges of high inflation, interest rates and the exchange rate.

2. (b)  to create conditions that would ensure that the 2008/2009 agricultural season is productive.

3. (c)  to establish a National Economic Council, composed of representatives of the Parties and of the following sectors:
   (i) Manufacturing
   (ii) Agriculture

   (iii) Mining
   (iv) Tourism
   (v) Commerce
   (vi) Financial
   (vii) Labour
   (viii) Academia; and
   (ix) Other relevant sectors

4. (d)  that the terms of reference of the Council shall include giving advice to Government, formulating economic plans and programmes for approval by government and such other functions as are assigned to the Council by the Government.

5. (e)  to endorse the SADC resolution on the economy.

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ARTICLE IV SANCTIONS AND MEASURES

4. Sanctions and Measures
4.1 Recognising and acknowledging that some sections of the international

community have since 2000 imposed various sanctions and measures against Zimbabwe, which have included targeted sanctions.

2. 4.2  The Parties note the present economic and political isolation of Zimbabwe by the United Kingdom, European Union, United States of America and other sections of the International Community over and around issues of disputed elections, governance and differences over the land reform programme.

3. 4.3  Noting and acknowledging the following sanctions and measures imposed on Zimbabwe:-

   1. (a)  enactment of the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act by the United States of America Congress which outlaws Zimbabwe’s right to access credit from International Financial Institutions in which the United States Government is represented or has a stake;

   2. (b)  suspension of Zimbabwe’s voting and related rights, suspension of balance of payment support, declaration of ineligibility to borrow Fund resources and suspension of technical assistance to Zimbabwe by the International Monetary Fund;

   3. (c)  suspension of grants and infrastructural development support to Zimbabwe by The World Bank; and

   4. (d)  imposition of targeted travel bans against current Government and some business leaders.

4. 4.4  Noting that this international isolation has over the years created a negative international perception of Zimbabwe and thereby resulting in the further isolation of the country by the non-availing of lines of credit to Zimbabwe by some sections of the international community.

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5. 4.5  Recognising the consequent contribution of this isolation to the further decline of the economy.

6. 4.6  Desirous and committed to bringing to an end the fall in the standards of living of our people, the Parties hereby agree:-

   1. (a)  to endorse the SADC resolution on sanctions concerning Zimbabwe;

   2. (b)  that all forms of measures and sanctions against Zimbabwe be lifted in

      order to facilitate a sustainable solution to the challenges that are currently

      facing Zimbabwe; and

   3. (c)  commit themselves to working together in re-engaging the international

      community with a view to bringing to an end the country’s international isolation.

      ARTICLE V LAND QUESTION

5. Land Question

1. 5.1  Recognising that colonial racist land ownership patterns established during the

   colonial conquest of Zimbabwe and largely maintained in the post independence period were not only unsustainable, but against the national interest, equity and justice.

2. 5.2  Noting that in addition to the primary objective of the liberation struggle to win one man one vote democracy and justice, the land question, namely the need for the re-distribution of land to the majority indigenous people of Zimbabwe was at the core of the liberation struggle.

3. 5.3  Accepting the inevitability and desirability of a comprehensive land reform programme in Zimbabwe that redresses the issues of historical imbalances and injustices in order to address the issues of equity, productivity, and justice.

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4. 5.4  While differing on the methodology of acquisition and redistribution the parties acknowledge that compulsory acquisition and redistribution of land has taken place under a land reform programme undertaken since 2000.

5. 5.5  Accepting the irreversibility of the said land acquisitions and redistribution.

6. 5.6  Noting that in the current Constitution of Zimbabwe and further in the Draft Constitution agreed to by the parties the primary obligation of compensating former land owners for land acquired rests on the former colonial power.

7. 5.7  Further recognising the need to ensure that all land is used productively in the interests of all the people of Zimbabwe.

8. 5.8  Recognising the need for women’s access and control over land in their own right as equal citizens.

9. 5.9  The Parties hereby agree to:

   1. (a)  conduct a comprehensive, transparent and non-partisan land audit, during

      the tenure of the Seventh Parliament of Zimbabwe, for the purpose of

      establishing accountability and eliminating multiple farm ownerships.

   2. (b)  ensure that all Zimbabweans who are eligible to be allocated land and who apply for it shall be considered for allocation of land irrespective of

      race, gender, religion, ethnicity or political affiliation;

   3. (c)  ensure security of tenure to all land holders.

   4. (d)  call upon the United Kingdom government to accept the primary

      responsibility to pay compensation for land acquired from former land

      owners for resettlement;

   5. (e)  work together to secure international support and finance for the land

      reform programme in terms of compensation for the former land owners

      and support for new farmers; and

   6. (f)  work together for the restoration of full productivity on all agricultural land.

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ARTICLE VI CONSTITUTION

6. Constitution
Acknowledging that it is the fundamental right and duty of the Zimbabwean people to

make a constitution by themselves and for themselves;

Aware that the process of making this constitution must be owned and driven by the people and must be inclusive and democratic;

Recognising that the current Constitution of Zimbabwe made at the Lancaster House Conference, London (1979) was primarily to transfer power from the colonial authority to the people of Zimbabwe;

Acknowledging the draft Constitution that the Parties signed and agreed to in Kariba on the 30th of September 2007, annexed hereto as Annexure “B”;

Determined to create conditions for our people to write a constitution for themselves; and

Mindful of the need to ensure that the new Constitution deepens our democratic values and principles and the protection of the equality of all citizens, particularly the enhancement of full citizenship and equality of women.

6.1 The Parties hereby agree:
(a) that they shall set up a Select Committee of Parliament composed of

representatives of the Parties whose terms of reference shall be as follows: (i) to set up such subcommittees chaired by a member of Parliament

and composed of members of Parliament and representatives of

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Civil Society as may be necessary to assist the Select Committee

in performing its mandate herein;

2. (ii)  to hold such public hearings and such consultations as it may deem

   necessary in the process of public consultation over the making of

   a new constitution for Zimbabwe;

3. (iii)  to convene an All Stakeholders Conference to consult stakeholders

   on their representation in the sub-committees referred to above and

   such related matters as may assist the committee in its work;

4. (iv)  to table its draft Constitution to a 2nd All Stakeholders Conference;

   and

5. (v)  to report to Parliament on its recommendations over the content of

   a New Constitution for Zimbabwe

2. (b)  that the draft Constitution recommended by the Select Committee shall be

   submitted to a referendum;

3. (c)  that, in implementing the above, the following time frames shall apply:

   1. (i)  the Select Committee shall be set up within two months of inception of a new government;

   2. (ii)  the convening of the first All Stakeholders Conference shall be within 3 months of the date of the appointment of the Select Committee;

   3. (iii)  the public consultation process shall be completed no later than 4 months of the date of the first All Stakeholders Conference;

   4. (iv)  the draft Constitution shall be tabled within 3 months of completion of the public consultation process to a second All Stakeholders Conference;

   5. (v)  the draft Constitution and the accompanying Report shall be tabled before Parliament within 1 month of the second All Stakeholders Conference;

   6. (vi)  the draft Constitution and the accompanying Report shall be debated in Parliament and the debate concluded within one month;

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7. (vii)  the draft Constitution emerging from Parliament shall be gazetted before the holding of a referendum;

8. (viii)  a referendum on the new draft Constitution shall be held within 3 months of the conclusion of the debate;

9. (ix)  in the event of the draft Constitution being approved in the referendum it shall be gazetted within 1 month of the date of the referendum; and

10. (x)  the draft Constitution shall be introduced in Parliament no later than 1 month after the expiration of the period of 30 days from the date of its gazetting.

    ARTICLE VII

PROMOTION OF EQUALITY, NATIONAL HEALING, COHESION AND UNITY

7. Equality, National Healing, Cohesion and Unity 7.1 The Parties hereby agree that the new Government:

1. a)  will ensure equal treatment of all regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, place of origin and will work towards equal access to development for all;

2. b)  will ensure equal and fair development of all regions of the country and in particular to correct historical imbalances in the development of regions;

3. c)  shall give consideration to the setting up of a mechanism to properly advise on what measures might be necessary and practicable to achieve national healing, cohesion and unity in respect of victims of pre and post independence political conflicts; and

4. d)  will strive to create an environment of tolerance and respect among Zimbabweans and that all citizens are treated with dignity and decency irrespective of age, gender, race, ethnicity, place of origin or political affiliation.

5. e)  will formulate policies and put measures in place to attract the return and repatriation of all Zimbabweans in the Diaspora and in particular will work towards the return of all skilled personnel.

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ARTICLE VIII
RESPECT FOR NATIONAL INSTITUTIONS AND EVENTS

8. Respect for National Institutions and Events
8.1 In the interests of forging a common vision for our country, the Parties hereby

agree:-

1. (a)  on the necessity of all Zimbabweans regardless of race, ethnicity, gender,

   political affiliation and religion to respect and observe Zimbabwe’s national

   institutions, symbols, national programmes and events; and

2. (b)  that all Zimbabweans regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, political affiliation and religion have the right to benefit from and participate in all

   national programmes and events without let or hindrance.

   ARTICLE IX EXTERNAL INTERFERENCE

9. External Interference

1. 9.1  The Parties reaffirm the principle of the United Nations Charter on non-

   interference in the internal affairs of member countries.

2. 9.2  The Parties hereby agree:-

   1. (a)  that the responsibility of effecting change of government in Zimbabwe

      vests exclusively on and is the sole prerogative of the people of Zimbabwe

      through peaceful, democratic and constitutional means;

   2. (b)  to reject any unlawful, violent, undemocratic and unconstitutional means of

      changing governments; and

   3. (c)  that no outsiders have a right to call or campaign for regime change in

      Zimbabwe.

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10. Free political activity

ARTICLE X
FREE POLITICAL ACTIVITY

Recognising that the right to canvass and freely mobilise for political support is the cornerstone of any multi-party democratic system, the Parties have agreed that there should be free political activity throughout Zimbabwe within the ambit of the law in which all political parties are able to propagate their views and canvass for support, free of harassment and intimidation.

ARTICLE XI
RULE OF LAW, RESPECT FOR THE CONSTITUTION AND OTHER LAWS

11. Rule of law, respect for the Constitution and other laws
11.1 The Parties hereby agree that it is the duty of all political parties and individuals

to:

1. (a)  respect and uphold the Constitution and other laws of the land;

2. (b)  adhere to the principles of the Rule of Law.

   ARTICLE XII
   FREEDOM OF ASSEMBLY AND ASSOCIATION

12. Freedoms of Assembly and Association
12.1 Recognising the importance of the freedoms of assembly and association in a

multi-party democracy and noting that public meetings have to be conducted in a free, peaceful and democratic manner in accordance with the law, the Parties have agreed:-

1. (a)  to work together in a manner which guarantees the full implementation

   and realisation of the right to freedom of association and assembly; and

2. (b)  that the Government shall undertake training programmes, workshops and meetings for the police and other enforcement agencies directed at the appreciation of the right of freedom of assembly and association and the proper interpretation, understanding and application of the provisions of

   security legislation.

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ARTICLE XIII
STATE ORGANS AND INSTITUTIONS

13. State organs and institutions

1. 13.1  State organs and institutions do not belong to any political party and should be

   impartial in the discharge of their duties.

2. 13.2  For the purposes of ensuring that all state organs and institutions perform their duties ethically and professionally in conformity with the principles and requirements of a multi-party democratic system in which all parties are treated equally, the Parties have agreed that the following steps be taken:-

   1. (a)  that there be inclusion in the training curriculum of members of the uniformed forces of the subjects on human rights, international humanitarian law and statute law so that there is greater understanding and full appreciation of their roles and duties in a multi-party democratic system;

   2. (b)  ensuring that all state organs and institutions strictly observe the principles of the Rule of Law and remain non-partisan and impartial;

   3. (c)  laws and regulations governing state organs and institutions are strictly adhered to and those violating them be penalised without fear or favour; and

   4. (d)  recruitment policies and practices be conducted in a manner that ensures that no political or other form of favouritism is practised.

      ARTICLE XIV TRADITIONAL LEADERS

14. Traditional Leaders
14.1 Recognising and acknowledging that traditional leaders are community

leaders with equal responsibilities and obligations to all members of their communities regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, race, religion and political affiliation, the Parties hereby agree to:-

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1. (a)  commit themselves to ensuring the political neutrality of traditional leaders; and

2. (b)  call upon traditional leaders not to engage in partisan political activities at national level as well as in their communities.

   ARTICLE XV
   NATIONAL YOUTH TRAINING PROGRAMME

15. National Youth Training Programme
Recognising the desirability of a national youth training programme which inculcates the values of patriotism, discipline, tolerance, non-violence, openness, democracy, equality, justice and respect.

Determined to ensure that the National Youth Training Programme raises awareness of the HIV and AIDS pandemic, engenders a spirit of community service, skills development and a commitment to the development of Zimbabwe

15.1 The Parties hereby agree that:-

1. (a)  all youths regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, religion and political

   affiliation are eligible to participate in national youth training programmes;

2. (b)  the National Youth Training Programme must be run in a non-partisan manner and shall not include partisan political material advancing the cause of any political party; and

3. (c)  while recognising that youths undergoing training at national youth training centres have a right to hold political opinions, they shall not, during the period of their training, collectively and as part of a scheme of the training centre be used or deployed for partisan political work.

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ARTICLE XVI HUMANITARIAN AND FOOD ASSISTANCE

16. Humanitarian and food assistance

1. 16.1  In times of need, every Zimbabwean regardless of race, ethnicity, gender,

   political affiliation and religion is entitled to request and receive humanitarian and food assistance from the State.

2. 16.2  It is the primary responsibility of the State to ensure that every Zimbabwean who needs humanitarian and food assistance receives it.

3. 16.3  Non-Governmental Organisations involved in giving humanitarian and food assistance shall do so without discrimination on the grounds of race, ethnicity, gender, political affiliation and religion and in doing so, shall not promote or advance the interests of any political party or cause.

4. 16.4  In this regard the Parties hereby agree:

   1. (a)  that in the fulfillment of its obligations above, the Government and all State

      Institutions and quasi State Institutions shall render humanitarian and food assistance without discrimination on the grounds of race, ethnicity, gender, political affiliation or religion;

   2. (b)  that humanitarian interventions rendered by Non-Governmental Organisations, shall be provided without discrimination on the grounds of race, ethnicity, gender, political affiliation and religion.

   3. (c)  that all displaced persons shall be entitled to humanitarian and food assistance to enable them to return and settle in their original homes and that social welfare organisations shall be allowed to render such assistance as might be required.

   4. (d)  that all NGO`s rendering humanitarian and food assistance must operate within the confines of the laws of Zimbabwe.

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ARTICLE XVII LEGISLATIVE AGENDA PRIORITIES

17. Legislative agenda
17.1 The Parties hereby agree that:

1. (a)  the legislative agenda will be prioritized in order to reflect the letter and spirit of this agreement;

2. (b)  the Government will discuss and agree on further legislative measures which may become necessary to implement the Government’s agreed policies and in particular, with a view to entrenching democratic values and practices.

   ARTICLE XVIII
   SECURITY OF PERSONS AND PREVENTION OF VIOLENCE

18. Security of persons and prevention of violence

1. 18.1  Noting the easy resort to violence by political parties, State actors, Non-State

   actors and others in order to resolve political differences and achieve political ends.

2. 18.2  Gravely concerned by the displacement of scores of people after the election of March 29, 2008 as a result of politically motivated violence.

3. 18.3  Recognising that violence dehumanises and engenders feelings of hatred and polarisation within the country.

4. 18.4  Further recognising that violence undermines our collective independence as a people and our capacity to exercise our free will in making political choices.

5. 18.5  The Parties hereby agree:

(a) to promote the values and practices of tolerance, respect, non-violence

and dialogue as means of resolving political differences;

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2. (b)  to renounce and desist from the promotion and use of violence, under whatever name called, as a means of attaining political ends;

3. (c)  that the Government shall apply the laws of the country fully and impartially in bringing all perpetrators of politically motivated violence to book;

4. (d)  that all political parties, other organisations and their leaders shall commit themselves to do everything to stop and prevent all forms of political violence, including by non-State actors and shall consistently appeal to their members to desist from violence;

5. (e)  to take all measures necessary to ensure that the structures and institutions they control are not engaged in the perpetration of violence.

6. (f)  that all civil society organisations of whatever description whether affiliated to a political party or not shall not promote or advocate for or use violence or any other form of intimidation or coercion to canvass or mobilise for or oppose any political party or to achieve any political end;

7. (g)  to work together to ensure the security of all persons and property;

8. (h)  to work together to ensure the safety of any displaced persons, their safe

   return home and their enjoyment of the full protection of the law.

9. (i)  to refrain from using abusive language that may incite hostility, political

   intolerance and ethnic hatred or unfairly undermine each other.

10. (j)  that while having due regard to the Constitution of Zimbabwe and the principles of the rule of law, the prosecuting authorities will expedite the determination as to whether or not there is sufficient evidence to warrant the prosecution or keeping on remand of all persons accused of politically related offences arising out of or connected with the March and June 2008

    elections.

    ARTICLE XIX
    FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION AND COMMUNICATION

19. Freedom of Expression and Communication
Recognising the importance of the right to freedom of expression and the role of the

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media in a multi-party democracy.

Noting that while the provisions of the Broadcasting Services Act permit the issuance of licences, no licences other than to the public broadcaster have been issued.

Aware of the emergence of foreign based radio stations broadcasting into Zimbabwe, some of which are funded by foreign governments.

Concerned that the failure to issue licences under the Broadcasting Services Act to alternative broadcasters might have given rise to external radio stations broadcasting into Zimbabwe.

Further concerned that foreign government funded external radio stations broadcasting into Zimbabwe are not in Zimbabwe’s national interest.

Desirous of ensuring the opening up of the air waves and ensuring the operation of as many media houses as possible.

19.1 The Parties hereby agree:-

1. (a)  that the government shall ensure the immediate processing by the

   appropriate authorities of all applications for re-registration and registration in terms of both the Broadcasting Services Act as well as the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act;

2. (b)  all Zimbabwean nationals including those currently working for or running external radio stations be encouraged to make applications for broadcasting licences, in Zimbabwe, in terms of the law;

3. (c)  that in recognition of the open media environment anticipated by this Agreement, the Parties hereby:-

(i) call upon the governments that are hosting and/or funding external

radio stations broadcasting into Zimbabwe to cease such hosting and funding; and

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(ii) encourage the Zimbabweans running or working for external radio stations broadcasting into Zimbabwe to return to Zimbabwe; and

4. (d)  that steps be taken to ensure that the public media provides balanced and fair coverage to all political parties for their legitimate political activities.

5. (e)  that the public and private media shall refrain from using abusive language that may incite hostility, political intolerance and ethnic hatred or that unfairly undermines political parties and other organisations. To this end, the inclusive government shall ensure that appropriate measures are taken to achieve this objective.

   ARTICLE XX
   FRAMEWORK FOR A NEW GOVERNMENT

20. Framework for a new Government
Acknowledging that we have an obligation to establish a framework of working

together in an inclusive government;

Accepting that the formation of such a government will have to be approached with great sensitivity, flexibility and willingness to compromise;

Recognising that the formation of such a Government would demonstrate the respect of the Parties for the deeply-felt and immediate hopes and aspirations of the millions of our people.

Determined to carry out sustained work to create the conditions for returning our country to stability and prosperity;

Acknowledging the need for gender parity, particularly the need to appoint women to strategic Cabinet posts;

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20.1 The Parties hereby agree that:

20.1.1 Executive Powers and Authority

The Executive Authority of the Inclusive Government shall vest in, and be shared among the President, the Prime Minister and the Cabinet, as provided for in this Constitution and legislation.

The President of the Republic shall exercise executive authority subject to the Constitution and the law.

The Prime Minister of the Republic shall exercise executive authority subject to the Constitution and the law.

The Cabinet of the Republic shall exercise executive authority subject to the Constitution and the law.

In the exercise of executive authority, the President, Vice Presidents, the Prime Minister, the Deputy Prime Ministers, Ministers and Deputy Ministers must have regard to the principles and spirit underlying the formation of the Inclusive Government and accordingly act in a manner that seeks to promote cohesion both inside and outside government.

20.1.2 The Cabinet

1. (a)  shall have the responsibility to evaluate and adopt all government policies and the consequential programmes;

2. (b)  shall, subject to approval by Parliament, allocate the financial resources for the implementation of such policies and programmes;

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(c) shall have the responsibility to prepare and present to Parliament, all such legislation and other instruments as may be necessary to implement the policies and programmes of the National Executive;

4. (d)  shall, except where the Constitution requires ratification by Parliament, or action by the President, approve all international agreements;

5. (e)  shall ensure that the state organs, including the Ministries and Departments, have sufficient financial and other resources and appropriate operational capacity to carry out their functions effectively; and

6. (f)  shall take decisions by consensus, and take collective responsibility for all Cabinet decisions, including those originally initiated individually by any member of Cabinet.

7. (g)  The President and the Prime Minister will agree on the allocation of Ministries between them for the purpose of day-to-day supervision.

20.1.3 The President

1. (a)  chairs Cabinet;

2. (b)  exercises executive authority;

3. (c)  shall exercise his/her powers subject to the provisions of the Constitution;

4. (d)  can, subject to the Constitution, declare war and make peace;

5. (e)  can, subject to the Constitution, proclaim and terminate martial law;

6. (f)  confers honours and precedence, on the advice of Cabinet;

7. (g)  grants pardons, respites, substitutes less severe punishment and suspends or

   remits sentences, on the advice of Cabinet;

8. (h)  chairs the National Security Council;

9. (i)  formally appoints the Vice Presidents;

10. (j)  shall, pursuant to this Agreement, appoint the Prime Minister pending the

    enactment of the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment no.19 as agreed by the

    Parties;

11. (k)  formally appoints Deputy Prime Ministers, Ministers and Deputy Ministers in

    accordance with this agreement;

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(l) after consultation with the Vice Presidents, the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Ministers, allocates Ministerial portfolios in accordance with this Agreement;

13. (m)  accredits, receives and recognizes diplomatic agents and consular officers;

14. (n)  appoints independent Constitutional Commissions in terms of the Constitution;

15. (o)  appoints service/executive Commissions in terms of the Constitution and in

    consultation with the Prime Minister;

16. (p)  in consultation with the Prime Minister, makes key appointments the President is

    required to make under and in terms of the Constitution or any Act of Parliament;

17. (q)  may, acting in consultation with the Prime Minister, dissolve Parliament;

18. (r)  must be kept fully informed by the Prime Minister on the general conduct of the

    government business and;

19. (s)  shall be furnished with such information as he/she may request in respect of any

    particular matter relating to the government, and may advise the Prime Minister and Cabinet in this regard.

20.1.4 The Prime Minister

1. (a)  chairs the Council of Ministers and is the Deputy Chairperson of Cabinet;

2. (b)  exercises executive authority;

3. (c)  shall oversee the formulation of government policies by the Cabinet;

4. (d)  shall ensure that the policies so formulated are implemented by the entirety of

   government;

5. (e)  shall ensure that the Ministers develop appropriate implementation plans to give

   effect to the policies decided by Cabinet: in this regard, the Ministers will report to the Prime Minister on all issues relating to the implementation of such policies and plans;

6. (f)  shall ensure that the legislation necessary to enable the government to carry out its functions is in place: in this regard, he/she shall have the responsibility to discharge the functions of the Leader of Government Business in Parliament;

7. (g)  shall be a member of the National Security Council; 23

8. (h)  may be assigned such additional functions as are necessary further to enhance the work of the Inclusive Government;

9. (i)  shall, to ensure the effective execution of these tasks, be assisted by Deputy Prime Ministers; and

10. (j)  shall report regularly to the President and Parliament.

20.1.5 Council of Ministers

To ensure that the Prime Minister properly discharges his responsibility to oversee the implementation of the work of government, there shall be a Council of Ministers consisting of all the Cabinet Ministers, chaired by the Prime Minister, whose functions shall be:

1. (a)  to assess the implementation of Cabinet decisions;

2. (b)  to assist the Prime Minister to attend to matters of coordination in the

   government;

3. (c)  to enable the Prime Minister to receive briefings from the Cabinet Committees;

4. (d)  to make progress reports to Cabinet on matters of implementation of Cabinet

   decisions;

5. (e)  to receive and consider reports from the Committee responsible for the periodic

   review mechanism; and

6. (f)  to make progress reports to Cabinet on matters related to the periodic review

   mechanism.

20.1.6 Composition of the Executive

1. (1)  There shall be a President, which Office shall continue to be occupied by

   President Robert Gabriel Mugabe.

2. (2)  There shall be two (2) Vice Presidents, who will be nominated by the President and/or Zanu-PF.

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3. (3)  There shall be a Prime Minister, which Office shall be occupied by Mr Morgan Tsvangirai.

4. (4)  There shall be two (2) Deputy Prime Ministers, one (1) from MDC-T and one (1) from the MDC-M.

5. (5)  There shall be thirty-one (31) Ministers, with fifteen (15) nominated by ZANU PF, thirteen (13) by MDC-T and three (3) by MDC-M. Of the 31 Ministers, three (3) one each per Party, may be appointed from outside the members of Parliament. The three (3) Ministers so appointed shall become members of the House of Assembly and shall have the right to sit, speak and debate in Parliament, but shall not be entitled to vote.

6. (6)  There shall be fifteen (15) Deputy Ministers, with (eight) 8 nominated by ZANU PF, six (6) by MDC-T and one (1) by MDC-M.

7. (7)  Ministers and Deputy Ministers may be relieved of their duties only after consultation among the leaders of all the political parties participating in the Inclusive Government.

20.1.7 Senate

1. (a)  The President shall, in his discretion, appoint five (5) persons to the existing positions of Presidential senatorial appointments.

2. (b)  There shall be created an additional nine (9) appointed senatorial posts, which shall be filled by persons appointed by the President, of whom, 3 will be nominated by ZANU-PF, 3 by MDC-T and 3 by MDC-M.

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20.1.8 Filling of vacancies

(a) In the event of any vacancy arising in respect of posts referred to in clauses 20.1.6 and 20.1.7(b) above, such vacancy shall be filled by a nominee of the Party which held that position prior to the vacancy arising.

ARTICLE XXI ELECTORAL VACANCIES

21. Electoral Vacancies
Aware of the divisive and often times confrontational nature of elections and by

elections;

Noting the need to allow this agreement to take root amongst the parties and people of Zimbabwe; and

Cognisant of the need to give our people some breathing space and a healing period;

21.1 The Parties hereby agree that for a period of 12 months from the date of signing of this agreement, should any electoral vacancy arise in respect of a local authority or parliamentary seat, for whatever reason, only the party holding that seat prior to the vacancy occurring shall be entitled to nominate and field a candidate to fill the seat subject to that party complying with the rules governing its internal democracy.

ARTICLE XXII IMPLEMENTATION MECHANISMS

22. Implementation mechanisms
22.1 To ensure full and proper implementation of the letter and spirit of this

Agreement, the Parties hereby constitute a Joint Monitoring and Implementation Committee (“JOMIC”) to be composed of four senior members from ZANU-PF and four senior members from each of the two MDC Formations. Gender consideration must be taken into account in relation to the composition of JOMIC.

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2. 22.2  The committee shall be co-chaired by persons from the Parties.

3. 22.3  The committee shall have the following functions:-

   1. (a)  to ensure the implementation in letter and spirit of this Agreement;

   2. (b)  to assess the implementation of this Agreement from time to time and

      consider steps which might need to be taken to ensure the speedy and full

      implementation of this Agreement in its entirety;

   3. (c)  to receive reports and complaints in respect of any issue related to the

      implementation, enforcement and execution of this Agreement;

   4. (d)  to serve as catalyst in creating and promoting an atmosphere of mutual

      trust and understanding between the parties; and

   5. (e)  to promote continuing dialogue between the Parties.

4. 22.4  JOMIC shall be the principal body dealing with the issues of compliance and monitoring of this Agreement and to that end, the Parties hereby undertake to channel all complaints, grievances, concerns and issues relating to compliance with this Agreement through JOMIC and to refrain from any conduct which might undermine the spirit of co-operation necessary for the fulfillment of this Agreement.

5. 22.5  The new Government shall ensure that steps are taken to make the security forces conversant with the Constitution of Zimbabwe and other laws of Zimbabwe including laws relating to public order and security.

6. 22.6  The implementation of this agreement shall be guaranteed and underwritten by the Facilitator, SADC and the AU.

7. 22.7  The Parties and the new Government shall seek the support and assistance of SADC and the AU in mobilizing the international community to support the new Government’s economic recovery plans and programmes together with the lifting of sanctions taken against Zimbabwe and some of its leaders.

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22.8 The Parties agree that they shall cause Parliament to amend any legislation to the extent necessary to bring this agreement into full force.

ARTICLE XXIII PERIODIC REVIEW MECHANISM

23. Periodic review mechanism

1. 23.1  Having regard to the Objectives and Priorities of the New Government as set out

   in this Agreement, the Parties hereby agree that:

   1. (a)  they shall constitute a committee composed of 2 representatives each to

      review on an annual basis progress on the implementation and achievement of the priorities and objectives set out in this Agreement, namely: Economic (restoration of economic stability and growth, sanctions, land question) Political (new constitution, promotion of equality, national healing and cohesion and unity, external interference, free political activity, rule of law, state organs and institutions, legislative agenda and priorities) Security (security of persons and prevention of violence) and Communication (media and external radio stations); and

   2. (b)  the committee shall make recommendations to the Parties and the new government on any matters relating to this Agreement, more particularly on measures and programmes that may be necessary to take and make to realise full implementation of this Agreement.

   3. (c)  this Agreement and the relationship agreed to hereunder will be reviewed at the conclusion of the constitution-making process.

2. 23.2  The Parties will continually review the effectiveness and any other matter relating to the functioning of the Inclusive Government established by the Constitution in consultation with the Guarantors.

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ARTICLE XXIV
INTERIM CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS

24. Interim Constitutional amendments

The Parties hereby agree:

1. 24.1  that the constitutional amendments which are necessary for the implementation of this agreement shall be passed by parliament and assented to by the President as Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Act No 19. The Parties undertake to unconditionally support the enactment of the said Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment No 19;

2. 24.2  to include in Constitutional Amendment No19 the provisions contained in Chapters 4 and 13, and section 121 of the draft Constitution that the Parties executed at Kariba on 30 September 2007 (Kariba draft).

   ARTICLE XXV COMMENCEMENT

25. Commencement

This Agreement shall enter into force upon its signature by the Parties.

In WITNESS WHEREOF the Parties have signed this Agreement in the English language, in six identical copies, all texts being equally authentic:

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DONE AT HARARE, ON THIS15TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER 2008

________________________ ROBERT G MUGABE PRESIDENT, ZANU-PF

________________________ MORGAN R TSVANGIRAI PRESIDENT, MDC

________________________ ARTHUR G O MUTAMBARA PRESIDENT, MDC

In WITNESS THEREOF the Facilitator:

________________________ THABO MBEKI
SADC FACILITATOR