Harare — The UN at the weekend threw its support behind new elections in Zimbabwe set for July and urged the government to kick-start the country’s economy as an "urgent priority". Achim Steiner, administrator for the UN Development Programme (UNDP), was in Harare as part of a three-day trip during which he met Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa. "The UNDP is committed to continue supporting the preparatory process for the elections and economic recovery efforts," Steiner told reporters. Mnangagwa repeated his pledge to hold free, fair and credible elections to President Cyril Ramaphosa when they meet in Harare at the weekend. "As a nation, party and government we are looking to very peaceful, transparent and free elections in July this year," Mnangagwa said. Presidential polls are due by the end of August, when Mnangagwa will face his first major test after taking over from long-time strongman Robert Mugabe, who resigned in November after four decades in office. Among Mnangagw...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.