Zanu PF Claims Credit for Kirsty Coventry’s Election as IOC President
21 March 2025
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By A Correspondent

The Zanu PF Masvingo Youth League has publicly claimed credit for the election of Zimbabwe’s Sports Minister Kirsty Coventry as the 10th President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Her election, which took place at the 144th IOC Session in Costa Navarino, Greece, has stirred significant political commentary, with the ruling party asserting that Coventry’s success is a direct result of the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

In a statement released on Friday morning, a Zanu PF Masvingo Youth League official congratulated Coventry, highlighting the party’s belief that her election was inspired by President Mnangagwa’s leadership and the strength of the Zanu PF party.

“Congratulations to Kirsty Coventry on her election as the 10th President of the International Olympic Committee at the 144th IOC Session in Costa Navarino.

She belongs to the winning team Zanu PF. Her victory is our victory. It is President Mnangagwa’s victory and indeed the nation’s victory,” the official said.

Coventry’s election to the prestigious position marks a significant achievement for Zimbabwe and the international sports community.

However, Zanu PF has been quick to tie her success to the political influence of President Mnangagwa, framing it as a testament to his leadership and the party’s ability to deliver results for Zimbabweans on the world stage.

This claim of credit comes amidst ongoing political discourse, where Zanu PF has often linked the achievements of individuals, especially in global forums, to the broader successes of the ruling party and its president.

The Masvingo Youth League’s statement reflects this tendency, with party officials eager to align themselves with high-profile successes such as Coventry’s IOC presidency.

As the international sporting community celebrates her achievement, political implications continue to surface at home, with the ruling party positioning itself as the driving force behind Zimbabwe’s representation on the global stage.