Harare – Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu-PF, has dismissed predictions of its potential ousting from power, asserting that removing it from office would be no simple feat.
This response came from Zanu-PF’s Director of Information, Farai Marapira, following South African opposition leader Mmusi Maimane’s comments that the party could be next to fall after the recent elections in Botswana.
Maimane, a vocal critic of ruling parties across Southern Africa, hinted that Zanu-PF could face a fate similar to Botswana’s ruling party, which saw significant setbacks in the country’s latest elections. “Zanu-PF, you’re next!” Maimane declared, suggesting that the tide of political change sweeping across the region could soon extend to Zimbabwe.
Responding to this assertion, Marapira firmly stated that Zanu-PF remains deeply rooted in Zimbabwean politics and that its removal would not be as simple as Maimane or opposition voices might hope. “Zanu-PF has established itself as the central pillar of Zimbabwe’s political, social, and economic structure. Removing the party from power at any given time would be far from easy,” Marapira said in a statement. He described Maimane’s comments as “misinformed” and suggested they underestimated Zanu-PF’s enduring support among Zimbabweans.
Zanu-PF’s Longstanding Influence and Control
Zanu-PF, in power since Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980, has a long history of navigating political challenges and sustaining its dominance. Under the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, the party has continued to consolidate its control over the country’s political and economic systems. Despite challenges, including widespread economic hardship, allegations of electoral irregularities, and opposition claims of voter suppression, Zanu-PF has maintained its grip on the government and state institutions.
Marapira emphasised that Zanu-PF’s influence runs deep within Zimbabwean society, pointing to the party’s extensive rural support base and its strategic partnerships with the military and other security agencies. He also highlighted the party’s role in land redistribution and other populist policies that have helped it maintain a broad base of loyalty, especially in rural areas.
Regional Implications and Maimane’s Warning
Maimane’s remarks are part of a larger wave of opposition momentum seen across Southern Africa, where long-dominant ruling parties face increasing scrutiny and electoral challenges. The recent Botswana election, which brought substantial gains for opposition parties, has emboldened political activists and opposition leaders in the region who are eager to see similar changes in countries like Zimbabwe.
Political analysts note that Maimane’s warning to Zanu-PF reflects a growing sentiment among younger African voters who are disillusioned with longstanding ruling parties and are demanding change. As political and economic challenges mount in Zimbabwe, including high inflation, unemployment, and widespread poverty, opposition forces are intensifying their calls for reform.
Zanu-PF’s Strategy for Maintaining Power
In recent years, Zanu-PF has undertaken efforts to fortify its political control. From tightening regulations around political gatherings to exerting influence over media and information channels, the party has continued to limit avenues for opposition mobilisation. Security forces have been deployed at protests, and opposition leaders have faced arrests, with the government often citing national security concerns. These tactics have made it increasingly difficult for opposition movements to gain traction.
Marapira dismissed suggestions that such actions indicated desperation or weakness. Instead, he argued that Zanu-PF’s approach to governance and national security reflects its commitment to stability in Zimbabwe. “We are focused on maintaining peace and order in our country, and Zanu-PF will continue to act in the best interests of Zimbabweans,” he stated.
Rising Opposition Sentiment
However, the tide of regional change may pose challenges for Zanu-PF. Zimbabwe’s main opposition party, the Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC), has seen growing support, particularly among young urban voters frustrated with economic hardships and a lack of opportunities. Although Zanu-PF has consistently won elections, critics argue that electoral processes have not always been fair, with accusations of voter suppression and media bias frequently raised.
Maimane’s comments have further galvanised opposition supporters in Zimbabwe, who view the recent developments in Botswana as a potential catalyst for change. The CCC and other opposition groups have called on the government to implement reforms that would ensure free and fair elections, including an independent electoral commission and greater transparency in vote counting.
The Road Ahead
While Zanu-PF remains firmly in power, the next few years could see a shift in Zimbabwe’s political landscape, particularly as regional and domestic calls for reform grow louder. For now, the party’s confidence remains unshaken, with Marapira reiterating that Zanu-PF’s legacy and influence are deeply woven into the fabric of Zimbabwe’s governance.
As Zimbabwe approaches future elections, the question remains: will Zanu-PF’s historical influence be enough to withstand the rising demands for change, or could Zimbabwe follow Botswana in embracing a new political chapter? The eyes of the region are on Zimbabwe, and the outcome may have significant implications for both the country and Southern Africa at large.