Zimbabwe could be reinstated into the Commonwealth, despite concerns over its human rights record, following support from Baroness Scotland, the organization’s controversial Secretary-General.
Baroness Scotland has recommended that Zimbabwe be allowed to rejoin the Commonwealth, more than two decades after its expulsion due to human rights abuses under former president Robert Mugabe.
This push for readmission comes amid ongoing allegations of election manipulation and the detention of political opponents under current president Emmerson Mnangagwa, who has also expressed support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
In her Informal Assessment Report, Baroness Scotland stated that stakeholders in Zimbabwe have reported an “overall improved political environment,” and expressed confidence that, with the Commonwealth’s support, the country could thrive again.
Her tenure has been marked by controversy, earning her the nickname ‘Baroness Brazen’ after reports revealed she spent £338,000 refurbishing her Mayfair apartment and appointed loyalists to key positions. She is expected to step down next year.
Regarding Zimbabwe, she acknowledged that while the country remains in the early stages of its democratic transition, with challenges such as political prisoners and freedom of association, it has broadly met most of the Commonwealth’s core criteria. She has suggested that Zimbabwe move to the “next stage” of membership, which would involve consultations with member nations.
However, the recommendation comes despite a delayed Commonwealth Observers’ Report on Zimbabwe’s 2023 elections, which criticized the process for its lack of credibility, transparency, and inclusivity. The report also highlighted the country’s new laws that have negatively affected journalistic freedoms.
Zimbabwe has been seeking reentry into the Commonwealth since 2018, motivated by the prestige of membership and access to markets with lower trade tariffs.
A Commonwealth spokesman confirmed that all stakeholders, including the government, opposition, civil society, media, and religious leaders, are eager for Zimbabwe’s return to the organization.
