Mnangagwa invites opposition for talks

Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa has invited opposition leaders to a meeting tomorrow (Thursday) to draw up terms for a national dialogue, following a brutal crackdown on anti-government protests.

More than 20 politicians who contested July’s presidential election were invited, two of whom – Lovemore Madhuku and Noah Manyika – said they would attend.

It would be the first meeting between Mnangagwa and opponents since he took power from Robert Mugabe in November 2017.

Manyika however said he believed conditions were not yet right for meaningful dialogue, which could only happen if hundreds of people detained during the crackdown were released and soldiers withdrawn from streets and checkpoints.

“It can only take place if, as the president promised upon his return from his overseas trip, the heads of those who have been responsible for brutalizing citizens roll,” Manyika said.

There was no immediate comment on the President’s invitation from Mnangagwa or his spokesman.- TR

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