Farai Dziva|A senior government official has claimed political dialogue in Zimbabwe does not require an external mediator.

Emmerson Mnangagwa’s spokesperson, George Charamba, quoted by Daily News last week said:

“Why would he (Mnangagwa) need to invite President Mbeki? Who wants President Mbeki to mediate?

I don’t know about the South African embassy because that (Mbeki) is their national. They can expect him in the country anytime.

What would be wrong is for anyone to create an impression that the political dialogue in Zimbabwe requires external mediation.”

“That position has been made clear to all and sundry, including local players and well-wishers.

The former president of South Africa is aware of that position by the government of Zimbabwe.

He is also aware of the standing arrangement of interaction among parties which is called POLAD and that there won’t be any other.

As for the claims that President Mnangagwa did not make a call, or did not receive a call from or to President Mbeki, the truth of the matter is that there was no need for a call from either side.

If anything, the two met on the sidelines of the African Union (AU) strictly from a position of camaraderie … briefing a colleague about political developments in the country, economic developments … but more critically … about sanctions,” added Charamba.