MNANGAGWA SUPPORTERS DROP 2030 SLOGANS

The 2030 campaign for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s third term seems to have come to an end. At the National Youth Day Commemorations in Bulawayo, there was a clear change in tone. When Mnangagwa arrived at the event, his supporters, who usually sing loud songs about “2030” and his continued leadership, stayed quiet. The popular “2030 ndeya Emmerson” song was not heard, and the crowd avoided chanting about a third term. Instead, the event took on a different mood, one that suggested the end of the 2030 campaign.

This shift appears to have been caused by strong resistance from a group within Zanu PF. Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga and his allies have been openly opposing the idea of Mnangagwa running for another term. Even the war veterans, who once supported the president, have turned against him. They have made it clear that they think Mnangagwa has failed and that he should step down.

In response to this pressure, Mnangagwa has repeatedly denied that he wants to stay in power until 2030. On several occasions, he has stated that he plans to retire in 2028, after finishing his second term. These public statements seem to have had an impact on his supporters. By the time the National Youth Day event took place, the “ED 2030” slogans and songs were nowhere to be heard.

The military has also played a key role in stopping the 2030 campaign. In recent days, they have shown their strength, rolling armored vehicles through Harare in a clear display of power. Behind the scenes, the army has firmly stated that Mnangagwa should step down after his second term. This strong stance from the military has left no room for debate. It is clear that the army is not willing to back another term for Mnangagwa.

This change in direction within Zanu PF may have larger consequences. With the 2030 campaign effectively over, attention will now shift to who will take over leadership in the future. Vice-President Chiwenga is seen by many as the most likely successor. His influence in this recent shift suggests that he is becoming more powerful within the party. The military’s backing only strengthens his position, making it likely that he will play a key role in deciding the party’s future leadership.

For now, the 2030 slogans and chants have faded away. The once-energetic campaign to keep Mnangagwa in power beyond his current term is no longer a dominant force. The ruling party has been forced to look ahead, and the power struggle within Zanu PF has come to the surface. As the party and the country watch these developments unfold, it remains to be seen how the future of Zanu PF leadership will take shape.