Zimbabwe has pledged its support for Zambia's candidate, Munzele Maimbo, for the African Development Bank (AfDB) presidency.
This commitment was made following a high-level meeting between former Zambian Vice President Enock Kavindele and President Emmerson Mnangagwa in Harare on Tuesday.
Kavindele, who was sent by Zambian President, Hakainde Hichilema, expressed his gratitude and described the close relationship between the two nations.
"Firstly, I have come to see my brother and secondly to wish him and the people of Zimbabwe the best when they take over the chairmanship of SADC and to seek my elder brother’s support and that of Zimbabweans,” he said.
“We have a candidate we are trying to sell to the region who wants to become a president of the African Development Bank. This man works at the World Bank as the vice president there, but he wants now to come and be in Africa with us.
“So, we say well, we will go to a senior man (President Mnangagwa) across the Zambezi and tell him, so we haven’t gone anywhere else at all. We are here to seek support. President Mnangagwa has assured us of his support for our candidate.”
Mnangagwa affirmed Zimbabwe's support for Zambia's candidate.
Political commentator Calvin Chitsunge commented: “Zambia and Zimbabwe are like Siamese twins
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“The endorsement of Dr. Munzele Maimbo, who currently holds a vice-presidential position at the World Bank, reflects Zimbabwe's dedication to regional solidarity and collaboration within the African continent.”
Maimbo's candidacy for the AfDB presidency is viewed as a strategic opportunity for Southern Africa to have a stronger voice within the bank, influencing policies and projects that directly impact the region's development.
His extensive experience at the World Bank is expected to bring valuable insights and leadership to the AfDB, benefiting the broader African continent.