Commonwealth Official Pushes for Zimbabwe’s Re-admission Amid Rights Concerns

Baroness Patricia Scotland, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, has advocated for Zimbabwe’s return to the organization, despite criticism of its human rights record. 

Expelled over two decades ago during Robert Mugabe’s presidency, Zimbabwe’s re-entry now faces scrutiny due to allegations of election manipulation and political repression under President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

In her informal assessment report, Baroness Scotland acknowledged “an overall improved political environment” in Zimbabwe. However, she admitted the nation is still “in the early stages of its democratic journey,” with challenges in upholding political freedoms. 

Despite these issues, she argued that Zimbabwe has broadly met key Commonwealth criteria and recommended progressing its application, involving consultations with member states.

This recommendation comes despite criticisms of Zimbabwe’s 2023 elections, flagged in a still-unpublished Commonwealth Observers’ Report, which highlighted issues in transparency and press freedoms. Some reports allege new laws are stifling journalistic independence in the country.

Zimbabwe has sought Commonwealth re-entry since 2018, hoping membership would provide international recognition and access to preferential trade tariffs. 

A Commonwealth spokesperson confirmed the enthusiasm of various Zimbabwean stakeholders – including the opposition and civil society – for rejoining the 54-nation bloc.