Harare - SOUTH African President, Jacob Zuma has urged calm and restraint in Zimbabwe’s unfolding political drama that has seen long ruling leader, Robert Mugabe being placed under “house arrest”.
Zimbabwe’s army denies staging a military coup, but the situation on the ground shows ingredients of an army having taken over government.
In a statement, Zuma said the Southern African Development Community (SADC) is monitoring Zimbabwe’s situation and “remains ready to assist where necessary to resolve the political impasse”.
“President Jacob Zuma, on behalf of SADC, has noted with great concern the unfolding political situation in the Republic of Zimbabwe.
“President Zuma has called for calm and restraint and has expressed hope that developments in Zimbabwe would not lead to unconstitutional changes of Government as that would be contrary to both SADC and African Union positions,” the SA Presidency said in a statement.
“The President has urged the Government of the Republic of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Defense Force to resolve the political impasse amicably and has urged the Zimbabwean Defense Force to ensure that the maintenance of peace and security in the country is not compromised.”
