MNANGAGWA SETS SIGHTS ON 2030 AS ‘OPPOSITION’ BACKS HIS BID

Zimbabwe’s political stage took a dramatic turn today when opposition figure Sengezo Tshabangu, who calls himself the secretary-general of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), publicly endorsed President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s plan to extend his rule beyond his constitutional term limit. This happened during a visit to Mnangagwa’s Precabe Farm in Kwekwe, where Tshabangu addressed a gathering of 300 MPs and senators.

Tshabangu surprised many by saying Mnangagwa should stay in power if it benefits Zimbabweans. He added that if extending Mnangagwa’s rule makes people happy, then “let it be.” His words were met with cheers and a standing ovation from those present, including Zanu PF leaders. Mnangagwa and Speaker of Parliament Jacob Mudenda clapped in approval.

The CCC had already suggested delaying the 2028 general elections to 2030 to give Mnangagwa time to complete his “development projects.” This unexpected support from the opposition strengthens Mnangagwa’s position and hints at changes in Zimbabwe’s political future.

At Precabe Farm, which is Mnangagwa’s center for key political and government activities, the president showcased modern farming practices. The event was attended by MPs, including Zanu PF Chief Whip Pupurai Togarepi and Tshabangu. Mnangagwa, now calling himself “Munhumutapa,” a title linked to ancient Shona emperors, is using his farm to boost his image as a capable leader and visionary.

Mnangagwa has even declared his birthday, 15 September, as “Munhumutapa Day.” This symbolic move adds to his efforts to build an imperial stature. Yet, critics note that Mnangagwa first came to power through a military coup in 2017, promising a transitional leadership.

Tensions within Zanu PF over Mnangagwa’s plans remain high. Vice President Constantino Chiwenga and his faction oppose the move, as it breaks an earlier agreement where Mnangagwa was supposed to step down after one term to allow Chiwenga to take over. The disagreement has fueled a fierce power struggle within the ruling party.

Zanu PF’s annual conference in October 2024 endorsed Mnangagwa’s 2030 vision but revealed underlying resistance from Chiwenga’s allies. Despite this opposition, Mnangagwa has pressed ahead, gathering political support to ensure the legal steps needed to remove constitutional term limits.

For Mnangagwa to extend his rule, the constitution must be amended through a referendum. Current laws prevent a sitting president from benefiting from such changes, so another referendum would be needed to eliminate that provision. Mnangagwa’s allies in parliament are expected to push for these changes, with today’s event marking a critical step in this plan.

Chiwenga’s faction, backed by military elements, is strongly against these developments. They argue that allowing Mnangagwa to extend his rule undermines democracy and destabilizes the balance of power within the party. This has created a standoff that could escalate further in the coming months.

Mnangagwa’s focus on political mobilization has been evident, and today’s show of unity with opposition members highlights his determination to secure support across the board. However, the path to 2030 is not without challenges. Factional infighting within Zanu PF, legal hurdles, and potential public dissent could derail his ambitions.

The endorsement from Tshabangu, seen as aligning the opposition with Mnangagwa’s goals, has raised eyebrows. Critics question whether this move serves the best interests of Zimbabweans or merely solidifies a political alliance aimed at maintaining the status quo.

As Zimbabwe watches these events unfold, the stakes are higher than ever. Mnangagwa’s bid for 2030 represents more than just an extension of his presidency. It reflects the shifting dynamics of power, opposition collaboration, and the uncertain future of Zimbabwe’s political landscape.

While Mnangagwa appears confident, Chiwenga and his faction remain a formidable force, signaling that the battle for Zimbabwe’s leadership is far from over. The country now braces for what could be a dramatic and decisive chapter in its history.