Own Correspondent|Zimbabwean businessman Frank Buyanga has called on the UN – and greater western world – to give Zimbabwe a chance, and due recognition in global politics, “as it was on a solid path to reform.”

The private initiative not only comes as President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government has vowed to vigorously pursue re-engagement efforts, but is pretty much in line with calls for the west to loosen its trade embargo on the Harare regime.

“…Africans need your support on many issues, including being able to voice their views on matters of security, those deliberated by the UN Security Council (UNSC),” Buyanga said in his letter to UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres.

He added the key organ “has never been more important to the continent, given the numerous interventions in conflicts around the region and undemocratic selection of representatives on the council, and where ‘smaller nations’ are left out”.

“The African Union (AU) is leaving the selection of who will represent Africa… to be determined by foreigners. This, Mr Guterres, opens a gap for manipulation and only the ‘big’ countries will forever be selected to sit on this powerful council …it is from this background that… Zimbabwe think(s) it is time our country be given a chance to be part of the UNSC,” he said.

“There is no threat to peace and security in Zimbabwe.
Secretary-general, with your help and guidance we hope and trust that Zimbabwe will get the recognition it deserves. We recommend that you support our recommendation that ‘smaller’ African countries… have a seat on the UNSC,” Buyanga said, adding “the recommendation must not only hold ground, but also be debated at the next general assembly (GA)”.

While the maverick businessman has welcomed the selection of South Africa, Belgium, Dominican Republic, Germany and Indonesia on the global organ, he says Africa must follow up on the Ezulwini Consensus – a 2005 pact and – whereby two permanent seats with veto powers were to be reserved for the continent.