FAKE OPPOSITION BACKS EXTENSION OF POWER FOR ED
Zimbabwe’s political landscape took a dramatic turn today as Sengezo Tshabangu, the self-declared secretary-general of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), openly endorsed President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s bid to stay in power beyond his constitutional limit of 2028. Speaking at Mnangagwa’s Precabe Farm in Kwekwe, Tshabangu surprised many by stating that if extending Mnangagwa’s rule makes Zimbabweans happy, then “let it be.”
This unexpected statement drew wild applause and cheers from an audience of about 300 Members of Parliament and senators, including Zanu PF leaders. Even Mnangagwa and the Speaker of Parliament, Jacob Mudenda, joined in with clapping. The show of support comes after the opposition recently suggested postponing the 2028 elections to 2030, giving Mnangagwa more time to complete his “development projects.” This move guarantees him support in Parliament, effectively eliminating significant resistance to his plans.
Mnangagwa, who has rebranded himself as “Munhumutapa” to evoke the grandeur of ancient Shona emperors, has been consolidating power at Precabe Farm. This location, described as the nerve center for Zanu PF strategy, is where critical government and party decisions are made. The farm is also being showcased as a model of modern agriculture, in a manner reminiscent of how Robert Mugabe once promoted his leadership.
The president has further solidified his imperial persona by declaring his birthday, September 15, as “Munhumutapa Day.” This is part of his broader efforts to portray himself as a visionary leader deserving of an extended mandate.
The Zanu PF party officially endorsed Mnangagwa’s 2030 plan at its annual conference in Bulawayo last October. However, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga and his faction are reportedly opposed to this bid. Mnangagwa’s rise to power in the 2017 coup came with an understanding that he would serve as a transitional leader before stepping aside for Chiwenga. Instead, he secured a second term and is now pushing for even more time in office, deepening tensions within Zanu PF.
Factionalism in the ruling party is at an all-time high. Chiwenga’s military-backed group has resisted Mnangagwa’s ambitions, setting the stage for a fierce power struggle. Despite this, Mnangagwa continues to press ahead, using Parliament as a tool to amend laws and pave the way for his 2030 vision.
The Zimbabwean constitution currently limits presidential terms to two. To remove these limits, a national referendum is required. Additionally, another referendum would be necessary to eliminate the clause preventing an incumbent from benefiting from the removal of term limits. Mnangagwa is working to navigate these legal challenges, with support from both Zanu PF and now elements of the opposition.
Critics argue that this maneuvering is a betrayal of democratic principles. Mnangagwa came to power promising reforms but has instead focused on consolidating his authority. His plans have sparked unrest within Zanu PF, with Chiwenga and his allies vowing to block the extension. This power struggle could lead to a dramatic political showdown in the coming months.
Tshabangu’s endorsement of Mnangagwa marks a significant shift in Zimbabwe’s opposition politics. Traditionally tasked with challenging the government, the opposition’s willingness to align with Mnangagwa raises questions about its commitment to democratic accountability. For now, Mnangagwa appears determined to secure his place in history as the leader who guided Zimbabwe to 2030, regardless of the opposition he faces.
With political and legal preparations underway, Mnangagwa is inching closer to his goal. However, the unresolved conflict within Zanu PF and potential public backlash could disrupt his plans. As Zimbabwe watches, the battle for 2030 is shaping up to be a defining moment in the country’s political history.
