Albert Andiseni-Mashingaidze
A declaration that has stirred political waters, the ZANU-PF Midlands province has reaffirmed its commitment to extending President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term until 2030, despite his repeated assertions that he intends to step down in 2028.
This decision has reignited tensions within the ruling party, as factions vie for influence and control.
Edson Chiherenge, the ZANU-PF chairperson for Midlands, has emerged as a vocal advocate for the 2030 agenda.
He emphasized, “we want him to continue to rule” Chiherenge said at a meeting held in Kwekwe last week.
“We went to a conference to endorse our resolution ass midlands Province that Mnangagwa should extend his term till 2030 as it belongs to Emmerson Mnangagwa”
Chiherenge’s provincial tour aims to rally support for the extension, showcasing a strong grassroots push for Mnangagwa’s continued leadership.
President Mnangagwa has consistently stated his intention to retire in 2028, raising questions about the sincerity of his commitment.
His deputy, Constantino Chiwenga, has not publicly supported the 2030 agenda, leading to speculation about the party’s future leadership dynamics.
Vivid Gwede, a political analyst, suggests that Mnangagwa’s supporters are driven by self-interest, fearing loss of power and opportunities should he step down.
He argues that the ruling party’s structure is heavily based on patronage, which complicates the narrative of a smooth transition.
“Many people have benefited from Mnangagwa’s rule and fear his exit because they will lose positions and opportunities to enrich themselves. Remember the ruling Party system is built on Patronages even if Mnangagwa meant his word there would still be these voices trying to convince him to stay”.
Maxwell Saungweme describes Mnangagwa’s situation as a case of “strategic ambiguity,” where leaders publicly deny intentions to extend their rule while subtly encouraging such efforts. He notes that this tactic aligns with political survival theories, where leaders manage public perception to maintain power.
“This tactic aligns with game theory and rational choice theory which suggest that political actors make calculated moves to maximize their power and maintain office longevity, despite public statements suggesting otherwise”.
“From a political survival theory perspective, leaders are incentivized to maintain power by managing public sentiment and elite alliances carefully”.
By caiming that he will not pursue another term, Mnangagwa attempt to soften criticism or avoid backlash associated with prolonged rule which could otherwise appear undemocratic.”
Ruben Mbofana, a political commentator, criticizes the situation, asserting that the push for Mnangagwa’s extended rule cannot occur without his tacit approval.
He highlights a pattern of deceit in Mnangagwa’s political maneuvers, suggesting that the ongoing support for the 2030 agenda is orchestrated from the top.
As the ZANU-PF Midlands province stands firm on its vision for 2030, the political landscape remains fraught with uncertainty.
The interplay between public declarations and behind-the-scenes maneuvering will be crucial in shaping the future of Zimbabwe’s leadership.
The coming months will be pivotal as party members and analysts alike watch closely for any shifts in strategy or public sentiment regarding Mnangagwa’s presidency.
