Business Unity South Africa welcomes the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between President Robert Mugabe and the two MDC factions led by Arthur Mutambara and Morgan Tsvangirai respectively. After years of economic malaise and political instability, this watershed event presents the best opportunity for Zimbabwe to re-establish and redefine itself. BUSA is especially pleased with the central commitments in the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), namely:
• Dedication to ending polarization, divisions, conflict and intolerance
• Building of a society based on justice, fairness, transparency, equality and dignity
• Determination to build a society free of violence, intimidation, fear, hate, patronage and corruption
BUSA furthermore welcomes the time horizon that has been agreed to, in particular the commitment to finalise discussions around the establishment of an inclusive government in two weeks. BUSA is pleased that the MOU also commits the parties to the formulation of a new Constitution that protects civil liberties and democratic rights.
As the voice of business in South Africa, with members holding business interests in Zimbabwe, BUSA stands ready to work and support all Zimbabwean parties in the restoration of economic stability and growth.
BUSA believes that the signing of the MOU lays the basis for the re-emergence of the Zimbabwean nation. It is a beginning, and we urge all the parties to redouble their efforts to ensure that the two weeks target is realized. BUSA urges the Dialogue process to be expanded to include other key stakeholders, such as business and civil society groups.
Lastly, BUSA wishes to extend our continued support for the mediation efforts of President Mbeki, on behalf of SADC, and the team that supports him. We urge the Mediation Team to continue its efforts and ensure that all the parties respect the spirit of the MOU and Dialogue.
The MOU has provided the platform for Zimbabweans to come together and help rebuild this glorious nation. The leaders dare not fail them.
