A CIVIC organisation led by former Silobela MP Anadi Silulu has called on Botswana President Duma Boko to engage President Emmerson Mnangagwa on urgent political and governance reforms in Zimbabwe, warning of growing threats to constitutionalism, transparency, and accountability.
In a formal letter dated April 21, the E-Movement said Zimbabwe’s governance environment was deteriorating and urged regional intervention through diplomatic engagement. The call came as Boko concluded a three-day State visit to Zimbabwe last week, which included attending the 5th Session of the Botswana-Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission in Harare and the official opening of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF).
“Your engagement presents a pivotal opportunity to exercise constructive, brotherly influence on behalf of the Zimbabwean people,” Silulu said.
The organisation warned against any attempt to extend presidential term limits beyond constitutional provisions.
“The citizens of Zimbabwe have unequivocally signalled their rejection of any manoeuvres to extend presidential term limits beyond the two-term mandate,” Silulu said.
He urged Boko to advise Mnangagwa “to abandon the amendment” and “commit to an honourable exit at the conclusion of his second term in 2028.”
Silulu also raised concern over systemic corruption, particularly in public procurement.
“Corruption continues to be the primary inhibitor of Zimbabwe's growth,” he said.
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“A particularly corrosive trend is the rise of ‘briefcase businessmen’ who bypass competitive bidding through direct patronage.”
The letter further called for the decentralisation of procurement processes and establishment of an independent authority to oversee public tenders.
The E-Movement also expressed concern over large financial donations made by private individuals to State institutions, describing the practice as problematic.
“Such gestures . . . undermine formal Treasury systems and raise serious questions regarding the origin of such funds,” Silulu said, urging greater transparency and parliamentary oversight.
Silulu appealed to Botswana’s reputation for democratic governance, saying its leadership can play a constructive regional role.
“Botswana’s principled commitment to anti-corruption and constitutionalism is an inspiration,” he said.
“By raising these issues with candour and diplomatic tact, you will provide an invaluable service to the Zimbabwean people.”
