Hichilema escalates diplomatic spat with Mnangagwa...

Hichilema escalates diplomatic spat with Mnangagwa to SADC

**President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia**

Zim Now Writer

Zambia has petitioned the Southern African Development Community and the African Union to intervene in a diplomatic spat with neighbouring Zimbabwe.

The appeal follows Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s recent remarks in Russia, which the Zambian government has denounced as a brazen assault on its sovereignty.

Addressing Parliament on Thursday, Zambia’s Foreign Minister, Mulambo Haimbe, expressed concern over the contents of Mnangagwa’s statements, made during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

“After verifying the accuracy of the video, we are alarmed by the unwarranted attack on our sovereignty,” Haimbe said.

Haimbe underscored the long-standing cordial relations between Zambia and Zimbabwe, including Zambia’s support for Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle.

“Our nations have enjoyed a rich history of friendship, with Zambia providing military assistance and a safe haven for Zimbabwe’s freedom fighters,” he noted.

Haimbe pointed out that Zambia was the first country to advocate for the lifting of sanctions against Zimbabwe in March this year, demonstrating its commitment to harmonious relations. However, he lamented that Mnangagwa’s remarks were at odds with the warm relations between the two nations.

“Regrettably, President Mnangagwa’s sentiments do not align with our historical friendship, prompting our government’s quest for a decisive resolution,” he said.

During his meeting with Putin, Mnangagwa accused the United States of attempting to isolate Zimbabwe and undermine its independence, expressing gratitude for Russia’s support during the liberation struggle.

He also highlighted areas where Zimbabwe required assistance, including defence, food security, and agricultural mechanisation.

“We cannot turn to the West, as they seek to undermine us. Instead, we must look to allies like Russia, whereas the West generously supports our neighbours, Zambia and Malawi,” Mnangagwa said.

Zambia has taken umbrage with Mnangagwa’s remarks, particularly his claim that the US is using Zambia to isolate Zimbabwe in the region.

Haimbe stated that the presence of a US Africa Command office in Lusaka posed no security risk to the region.