By A Correspondent
Zanu PF has ignited controversy with its early claim of victory in the 2030 elections, despite the fact that, according to the current constitution, elections are scheduled for 2028.
The declaration by Zanu PF official Taurai Kandishaya on Sunday has raised concerns over the party’s intentions to manipulate the electoral process and postpone the upcoming polls to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s rule.
Kandishaya’s statement suggests a clear agenda to maintain power beyond the constitutional limits, as he boldly declared that the ruling party would “win resoundingly” in the 2030 elections.
His remarks come at a time when internal debates within Zanu PF are intensifying over whether Mnangagwa should step down at the end of his second term in 2028, as mandated by the constitution.
On Facebook, Kandishaya boasted of the party’s growing influence, claiming that over 200 opposition members from various splinter groups in Chiredzi had defected to Zanu PF, citing the party’s “unprecedented economic development projects” as their reason for switching allegiance. He wrote: “Over 200 opposition members in Chiredzi have defected to ZANU PF, from various opposition splinter groups, citing the Second Republic’s unprecedented economic development projects as the reason for their switch.
This comes as the commissariat department is intensifying mobilisation efforts to solidify the Party structures. We are already winning 2030 elections.”
While the party celebrates these defections as a sign of political strength, the focus on the 2030 polls has added fuel to the growing speculation that Zanu PF may attempt to postpone the 2028 elections, a move that would require changing the constitution. This has led to confusion and division within the party, as some hardliners argue that Mnangagwa should not seek to extend his rule past 2028, while others appear to be positioning themselves for a longer tenure.
Kandishaya’s premature focus on 2030 reflects the party’s intention to shift the electoral narrative, even though the current constitutional framework mandates elections in 2028. Critics are wary of these moves, fearing they may undermine democratic processes and further consolidate power within the ruling party. As Zanu PF continues to push for constitutional changes and celebrates its alleged developmental successes, observers are increasingly concerned about the implications of these political maneuvers for Zimbabwe’s democratic future.