Zimbabwe crisis a 'confusing situation,' U.N. wants 'democratic closure'

United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres has described the ongoing political impasse in Zimbabwe as confusing reiterating the body’s call for the situation to be handled peacefully.

In an interview with the BBC World Guterres stressed that he was against military involvement in politics and hoped that an agreeable political solution can be reached.

“Well, I never like to see the military involved in politics but I have to recognise it’s a confusing situation. I hope first of all that there is no bloodshed, that this is done peacefully.

“I hope that [it] will be able to lead to a political and democratic solution and that the next elections that are scheduled are free and fair elections for the people of Zimbabwe to choose their own future,” he added.

At the current state of affairs back in the Zimbabwe capital, Harare, the 93-year-old leader is locked in talks with the army. Reports indicate that he is being asked to step down as leader to allow for transition into the post-Mugabe era.

The talks include Mugabe, the army, a delegation from the South African government and the Catholic Church. Citizens await an announcement from the meeting on the way forward even though the country has largely been peaceful since the army took over on Wednesday.

I am reliably informed that a deal is being finalized. It appears Mugabe’s demands for safe passage for his family have been granted. Final details might be confirmed in a few hours. #Zimbabwe

— Trevor Ncube (@TrevorNcube) November 16, 2017

Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, two cabinet ministers and the head of the military met South African envoys on Thursday in his office, the state Herald newspaper said.

(Photo/The Herald) pic.twitter.com/rkYflfosig

— africanews (@africanews) November 16, 2017

Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, two cabinet ministers and the head of the military met South African envoys on Thursday in his office, the state Herald newspaper said.

(Photo/The Herald) pic.twitter.com/OeNtZrkijP

— africanews (@africanews) November 16, 2017