The Commonwealth’s Secretary-General, Baroness Scotland, is pushing for Zimbabwe’s re-entry into the organization, despite ongoing issues regarding its human rights situation.
According to The Mail, Baroness Scotland has suggested that Zimbabwe be readmitted more than 20 years after it was expelled for human rights abuses during Robert Mugabe’s presidency.
The current administration, headed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has been criticized for allegations of election manipulation and the imprisonment of political adversaries.
In her Informal Assessment Report, Baroness Scotland noted that various stakeholders in Zimbabwe have indicated an “overall improved political environment.” She expressed optimism, stating:
“I am confident that with support from the Commonwealth family, the country can thrive again.”
However, her time in office has not been without controversy. Reports of her spending £338,000 on refurbishing her Mayfair apartment have led to her being dubbed “Baroness Brazen.” Additionally, she has faced backlash for appointing friends and allies to significant roles since taking charge and plans to resign early next year.
Baroness Scotland acknowledged that Zimbabwe is still navigating its democratic transition, referencing challenges such as political prisoners and the need for greater freedoms. Nevertheless, she feels that most essential criteria for Commonwealth membership have been met.
She has recommended that Zimbabwe’s application advance to the “next stage,” which includes discussions with member countries.
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Since 2018, Zimbabwe has been eager to rejoin the Commonwealth, driven by the benefits of membership, including enhanced prestige and access to markets with reduced trade tariffs.
A Commonwealth spokesperson confirmed that all parties involved—government, opposition, civil society, media, and religious leaders—are supportive of Zimbabwe’s reintegration into the Commonwealth.
