The Solution to Zimbabwe's Fractured Opposition Politics Problem

The Zimbabwean people have suffered enough from a fractured opposition. The cycle of electioneering distracts Zimbabwe’s leadership from the urgent task of economic recovery, as they focus instead on factional power plays. It is time for us to put the past behind us and our differences aside and focus on the bigger picture. The stakes are high, and the next election will decide whether we continue on the path of decline or whether we take a bold step towards restoring democracy, dignity and economic freedom for the citizens of Zimbabwe. by Michelle Mudzviti

I would like to present a proposal for a practical and fair path forward, one that prioritizes the will of the people, creates space for all leaders to demonstrate their abilities, and ensures we select the strongest candidate to represent the unified coalition in the next election.

Given the urgency of the situation and the need to act decisively against a ruling party that is already organizing, the opposition must prioritize unity, strategic action, and effective mobilization to capitalize on the limited time available before the next election. 

1. Form a Unified and Clear Coalition

Instead of lengthy debates about who is fit to lead a united opposition in Zimbabwe at the moment, the opposition should work quickly to form a unified coalition with clear, actionable goals. The issue of leadership will be addressed at a later stage (see point 5 below). What is most crucial right now is for the leaders of the different factions to demonstrate a willingness to put their differences aside for the greater good. Agree on a unified vision for the country, where key issues (e.g. economic recovery, corruption, national security) are prioritized.

2. Launch a Coordinated National Campaign

The opposition must present a unified front in public communications, showcasing solidarity and readiness to take on the ruling party. This means coordinated messaging across all opposition factions and their media platforms to communicate that the opposition is united and serious about unseating the ruling party.

Avoid any public infighting or disputes that could create the impression of disorganization. Every leader should emphasize the importance of collective action for the good of the country.

Given the limited time, the opposition should leverage social media and digital platforms for rapid communication. A well-organized online campaign can quickly spread messages, mobilize support, and raise awareness about key issues.

3. Collaboration on Shared Goals

The need for electoral reforms in Zimbabwe is a critical issue that demands immediate attention. And it is one that affects all opposition parties alike. It does not help for us to continue to fight about who is most popular amongst the opposition candidates if they are all walking into a rigged election with a predetermined outcome. 

It also does not help if a significant chunk of the population remains disenfranchised, i.e citizens in the diaspora who are currently unable to vote.

Urgent reforms are needed to introduce better transparency, including an independent electoral commission, impartial election observers at all voting stations on behalf of the opposition, the diaspora vote, voter registration and digital platforms for results dissemination.

A representative "administrative" body will be established, with equal input from all factions, to oversee the coalition activities and mediate disputes.

4. Incentivize Party Leaders to Focus on the Bigger Picture | Offer Tangible Incentives for Unity

To ensure that leaders within the opposition are motivated to put aside personal ambitions and focus on the larger goal of defeating the ruling party, all factions will be included in the governance structure post-election. A clear and equitable reward system will ensure that party leaders' interests are met based on merit and contributions, rather than through backroom deals.

Key positions (e.g. president, vice president, ministers, parliamentary leadership roles) will be assigned proportionally to the coalition members based on their performance in the internal election (see point 5 below) and contributions to the movement.

5. Selecting the Presidential Candidate:

Hold a democratic and transparent internal election to choose a single, unified candidate to challenge the ruling party in the elections. This process should be inclusive, transparent, and based on merit. All factions will pledge to support the chosen candidate and work collaboratively toward victory in the national election. 

The selection will be based on clear, merit-based criteria, including:

• -Proven leadership ability.
• -Integrity and clean track record.
• -Contribution to coalition goals.
• -Mobilization efforts (how much support a faction builds).
• -Contribution to voter education and advocacy.
• -Ability to bring in international support or recognition.

The internal election will be in an agreed-upon format that is fair and transparent. To fast-track the process, this can be in the form of an online election. 

All potential candidates and their factions will have an opportunity to demonstrate their leadership through tangible contributions to the coalition’s success from the time of the coalition's inception (i.e now) until the internal election just before the next national election in 2028. 

This will also help to curb the problem of electoral candidates only showing up around election time to canvass for votes and doing nothing for the people in between. 

We are setting a new tone of proven leadership, not popularity contests based on political slogans and chants. 

The truth of the matter though is that the true leader of the people will emerge from the ranks of the different factions over the course of the next 3-4 years if people really put their leaders to the test.

The people are watching. They are counting on the different opposition leaders to rise above personal ambitions and act as the unified force that will bring change to the nation of Zimbabwe. 

The road ahead will not be easy, but with unity, transparency, and determination, we can achieve the change that the people of Zimbabwe so desperately need.

Zimbabweans Have a "Toxic" Relationship with Nelson Chamisa

Zimbabwe’s political landscape has long been characterized by fierce loyalty and intense criticism towards its leaders. Few figures embody this duality more than Nelson Chamisa, the de-facto leader of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC). Chamisa, often viewed as the face of Zimbabwe’s opposition, has inspired both adoration and resentment, creating a polarizing dynamic that reflects deeper issues within the country’s political culture. By Michelle Mudzviti

A Symbol of Hope and Change

For many Zimbabweans, Nelson Chamisa represents a beacon of hope in a country that has endured decades of economic decline, political repression, and social upheaval. His youthful energy, eloquence, and promises of a brighter future have made him a rallying point for those yearning for change. Chamisa’s ability to connect with the younger generation, which makes up a significant portion of the electorate, has further cemented his status as a symbol of renewal.

However, this admiration often borders on blind loyalty. Many of Chamisa’s supporters see him not just as a political leader but as a messianic figure, capable of single-handedly rescuing the nation from its myriad challenges. This almost fanatical devotion creates an environment where criticism of Chamisa is seen as betrayal, stifling constructive debate about his leadership style and policy propositions.

This kind of uncritical support often prevents honest assessment of his policies, campaign strategies, and decision-making processes. For instance, discussions about the CCC's lack of a detailed manifesto or questions about Chamisa’s ability to navigate Zimbabwe’s complex political terrain are frequently dismissed or met with hostility. The tendency to idolize Chamisa means that even well-meaning critiques from within his support base are drowned out by a chorus of defensiveness and counterattacks. This environment not only hinders Chamisa’s growth as a leader but also weakens the opposition’s ability to present itself as a credible alternative to ZANU-PF.

The Flip Side: Intense Criticism

On the other hand, Chamisa has faced significant backlash, particularly from those who accuse him of being ineffective or overly ambitious. Critics point to his perceived lack of a clear, actionable plan to address Zimbabwe’s deep-seated problems. Others argue that his leadership of the opposition has been marked by infighting, a lack of strategy, and failure to build a robust organizational structure capable of challenging ZANU-PF’s entrenched dominance.

This criticism often veers into toxicity, with some detractors attacking not just Chamisa’s policies but also his character and personal life. The political discourse surrounding Chamisa is frequently reduced to ad hominem attacks, reflecting the broader culture of polarization in Zimbabwean politics.

Root Causes of the Toxicity

The toxic relationship Zimbabweans have with Chamisa can be traced back to several factors:

Desperation for Change: Decades of misrule under ZANU-PF have left Zimbabweans desperate for a saviour. This desperation places unrealistic expectations on Chamisa, setting the stage for inevitable disappointment when those expectations are not met.

Polarized Political Culture: Zimbabwean politics has long been characterized by a winner-takes-all mentality, leaving little room for compromise or dialogue. This culture fosters hostility and divisiveness, with Chamisa often at the centre.

Lack of Political Education: Many Zimbabweans engage with politics emotionally rather than critically, leading to blind loyalty or unwarranted vilification.

A Year of Silence and a Return to Politics

In January 2024, Chamisa left the CCC and stepped back from opposition politics, marking a surprising turn in his career. Over the past year, he has been largely inactive, refraining from making public statements or challenging the current regime, even as ZANU-PF and President Emmerson Mnangagwa pushed forward plans to extend Mnangagwa’s term to 2030. Chamisa’s silence during this critical period left many Zimbabweans questioning his commitment to the cause of democratic change.

Now, Chamisa has returned to the political arena, teasing plans to launch a new political party following the collapse of the CCC due to internal infighting. Despite his prolonged absence and the lack of a clear explanation for his previous inactivity, many Zimbabweans appear ready to rally behind him once again. This unwavering loyalty persists even in the absence of accountability or a concrete plan of action from Chamisa, underscoring the emotional rather than critical nature of much of his support base.

The Role of Social Media

Social media platforms have amplified this toxic relationship, providing a space where both supporters and critics can express their views—often in extreme terms. Twitter, Facebook, and WhatsApp groups are filled with posts either lionizing Chamisa or vilifying him. This digital battleground has turned political discourse into a zero-sum game, where nuanced discussions are rare, and echo chambers dominate.

The Way Forward

To break this cycle of toxicity, Zimbabweans must embrace a more mature political culture. This involves:

Holding Leaders Accountable: Supporters of Chamisa must recognize that constructive criticism is not betrayal but a necessary component of effective leadership. Leaders, in turn, must openly communicate their plans, provide clear strategies, and accept responsibility for their shortcomings.

Combating Polarization: Efforts should be made to reduce the "us versus them" mentality that dominates political discourse. Encouraging empathy and understanding across political divides can foster a more cohesive national identity.

Fostering Inclusive Dialogue: Both supporters and critics should engage in meaningful conversations that prioritize the nation’s needs over partisan loyalties. This includes creating spaces for open debate, where diverse perspectives can coexist without fear of retribution or dismissal.

You can read the full article here: Substack Mirror

Nelson Chamisa’s leadership will undoubtedly continue to shape Zimbabwe’s political trajectory. Whether he becomes a unifying figure or remains a polarizing one depends as much on his actions as on how Zimbabweans choose to engage with his leadership. By moving beyond the toxic dynamics of blind loyalty and baseless criticism, the nation can chart a path toward a more constructive and hopeful future.

Lessons from the Sengezo Tshabangu Saga:

Protecting Zimbabwe’s Opposition from Sabotage;

by Michelle Mudzviti

The recent saga involving Sengezo Tshabangu’s hijacking of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that Zimbabwe’s opposition parties face. Tshabangu, an individual with questionable authority, managed to destabilize the CCC by recalling several elected officials, causing widespread confusion and frustration among supporters. More alarmingly, his actions appeared to align closely with the interests of ZANU-PF, raising questions about state-sponsored interference in opposition politics. 

This incident has highlighted the urgent need for the CCC and other opposition parties to fortify themselves against similar disruptions in the future. To ensure a robust and sustainable democratic movement, it is crucial to understand how this situation unfolded and what measures can be taken to prevent a recurrence.

How the Hijacking Happened

1. Lack of Institutionalization

The CCC’s informal structure has been both its strength and its weakness. Operating as a movement rather than a formal political party allowed it to grow rapidly and galvanize support. However, this lack of formalization created a vulnerability. Without a constitution, clear leadership roles, and codified processes, the party was susceptible to infiltration and manipulation. The absence of a solid framework allowed unauthorized individuals to claim authority or act as spokespersons without clear accountability. This enabled Tshabangu to claim authority and act unilaterally, with little room for immediate rebuttal.

2. Leadership Transitions and Personality Politics

The departure of Nelson Chamisa from the CCC added to the instability within the party. Chamisa’s leadership had been a unifying force, and his absence created a vacuum that individuals like Tshabangu could exploit. Zimbabwe’s political culture, which often centers around strong personalities rather than ideologies or institutional frameworks, exacerbated the situation. This over-reliance on individual leaders rather than collective governance left the CCC vulnerable to manipulation and factionalism. Chamisa’s exit highlighted the risks of building movements around personalities instead of robust ideological foundations and institutional integrity.

3. State-Sponsored Sabotage

The ZANU-PF regime has a long history of undermining opposition movements through infiltration, propaganda, and creating parallel structures. Tshabangu’s actions - including the recalling of CCC MPs and councilors - bear the hallmarks of a coordinated effort to destabilize the party from within. Zimbabwe’s judiciary and the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), both widely regarded as aligned with ZANU-PF, lent credibility to Tshabangu’s claims, further complicating the CCC’s efforts to counter his maneuvers.

4. Weak Electoral and Legal Frameworks

The political and legal environment in Zimbabwe heavily favors ZANU-PF. Institutions like the ZEC and the judiciary have often been accused of bias, making it difficult for opposition parties to navigate challenges legally. Tshabangu’s ability to recall officials without facing significant legal obstacles underscores the systemic hurdles the CCC faces in seeking redress.

5. Internal Weaknesses

While external factors played a significant role, the CCC’s internal weaknesses cannot be ignored. The CCC leadership may have underestimated the need for robust internal controls and the threat of internal betrayal.

The absence of comprehensive vetting processes and internal security measures allowed Tshabangu to exploit the party’s vulnerabilities. Additionally, a lack of proactive crisis management mechanisms left the party scrambling to respond to his actions.

How to Prevent a Recurrence

1. Formalize Party Structures

To safeguard its future, the CCC must transition from being a movement to a formal political party with a constitution, clearly defined leadership roles, and transparent decision-making processes. Clear membership protocols and a registry will make it harder for unauthorized individuals to claim leadership roles.

2. Decentralising Leadership

Over-centralized leadership creates vulnerabilities by placing too much power and responsibility in the hands of a few individuals. Implement systems where decisions are made collaboratively by leadership councils, reducing the risk of unilateral actions by any one leader. This ensures that the party remains functional and responsive, even in the absence of top leaders. Empower provincial and district-level leaders to reduce over-reliance on a single individual, thereby making the party less vulnerable to targeted manipulation. 

Decentralizing leadership will also create a buffer against targeted attacks, as infiltrators will find it harder to destabilize a party with multiple centres of influence.

3. Build Alliances

Unity among opposition forces is crucial to countering ZANU-PF’s divide-and-rule tactics. A united opposition is harder to infiltrate and destabilize. The CCC should foster a culture of collaboration to present a unified front against ZANU-PF’s tactics. They should consider forming coalitions with other opposition parties and civil society organizations, instead of only seeking to consolidate power and be known as the leaders of opposition politics in Zimbabwe.

You can read the full article here: Substack Mirror Article

The Sengezo Tshabangu saga is a sobering reminder of the challenges that Zimbabwe’s opposition faces in a hostile political environment. However, it also provides an opportunity for reflection and growth. The path to a democratic Zimbabwe is fraught with challenges, but with strategic planning and unwavering commitment, the opposition can protect itself from future sabotage and continue to fight for meaningful change.

The Climate of Fear in Zimbabwe

The Climate of Fear in Zimbabwe has created untold Mass Migration

By Florence Lada

Since the inception of Mnangagwa's government in Zimbabwe the embers of hope have died. The almost immediate stark use of violence during the 2018 elections and the subsequent riots of 2019 proved the regime had only changed leaders but not changed in its ways. 

The continuity of military force, brutal intimidation, a consistently declining economy, public service failures and run down country has been the legacy of this so called New Era. 

People have since continued to be under heavy surveillance for criticising the government. Many others have been abducted and tortured mercilessly. This all being an indication that Mnangagwa disapproves of any inclination of 'democratic values'.

Migration with all their possessions

In such perilous circumstances, people failing to have basic freedoms, for example, just freedom of expression is still not tolerated in Zimbabwe in 2022! Many young people are losing hope and turning to drugs, despite having qualifications because of 98%unemployment rate. There aren’t industries that can accommodate and provide jobs for the qualified students upon graduation. 

Healthcare services are few and far between. Many government hospitals are squalid and have scarce services, due to being defunded with a shortage of essential workers - as government fail to pay for them, most choose to migrate to countries such as UK, Ireland and Australia. As a direct result of unemployment and unaffordability, delinquents are many and take advantage of the rampant instability and participate in skyrocketing crime. All these circumstances have fostered a ripe environment for mass migration.

Mnangagwa has failed Zimbabweans, failed the region which is picking up pieces of unprecedented migrants and the entire world which expected him to reform the country democractically and lift up Zimbabwe from the rock-bottom economic decay which was spearheaded by Mugabe.

Zimbabwe is basically imploding on itself. No hope, no future, now just a shell of once praised bread basket of Southern Africa. The legacy of the much loathed Land Reform saw the migration of a huge number of large scale farmers as well as skilled workers. This migration group has since risen especially since 2018 when Mnangagwa took over as President. Skilled workers don’t feel safe nor do they find Zimbabwe tenable place to continue in any career. 

How can people live, or thrive through intimidation? Is there any chance of survival for Zimbabweans apart from migrating to other countries? Human rights watch constantly highlights the importance of basic human rights, however, Zimbabwe’s regime has blatantly refused to uphold. Its heart-breaking, and quite disturbing the level of instability Zimbabweans have endured for 43years. Many have never known peace and have humbled themselves to leave for hopes of better future in the safety of other countries.  

Drone Video of Walk for Freedom

Click this image to view the Drone Video taken on the first ZHRO Walk in 2017

And now planning for the August 2023 Walk

 

 

"I stand with Job Sikhala as an activist of Citizen Ciliation for Change, ZHRO and ROHR Zimbabwe. As a Woman l feel the pain he is going through without committed any crime.Job Sikhala is a Zimbabwean political prisoner jailed without trial or bail for over seven months, for defending Mmoreblessing Ali, who was murdered then dismembered for her political affiliation with the CCC."

 

"Please help us draw the World’s  attention to his plight with Retweet . we demand his release. Job Sikhala is a family Man , left his family in pain, suffering please free him to be with his family. Job Sikhala is facing abuse in Chikurubi Maximum prison without food , water and medical treatment.  Job Sikhala prolonged detention without grated bail is a massive abuse of authority by the judicial system in Zimbabwe. It is also a breach of his human rights . l pray for his continued fortitude in bearing this justice."

Mercy Gomo

August 2022 Walk for Freedom - Report

In this update, made on the sombre anniversary of 1st August 2018 when Zimbabwe's Soldiers opened fire indiscriminately on unarmed civilians - who were quite correctly protesting about the rigging of the 2018 election, we must remind all Zimbabweans, the AU [African Union], SADC [Southern African Development Community] and the rest of the World, that there are currently NO Free and Fair Elections - nor has there been in practice since the 1980 [False] Independence. We will also repeat this item on our  website that highlights the fact that there is a Military Cabal controlling Zimbabwe, the Zanu PF party. https://take2zimbabwe.com

So our WALK FOR FREEDOM is as relevant as ever on this 7th time we have planned this event [the first time was in August 2016 just prior to the formation of ZHRO in October 2016]. Our 'practice walks' this month in London and North Yorkshire, have tied-in with other events to do with campaigning for Free, Fair and Open Elections - as highlighted below:

"Everyone has the right to take part in the government of his country, directly or through freely chosen representatives. . . . The will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of government; this will shall be expressed in periodic and genuine elections which shall be by universal and equal suffrage and shall be held by secret vote or by equivalent free voting procedures."
Article 21, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, 1948

As in previous year's we will attempt to predict our walking timetable for those who may wish to cheer us on, or join us for part of this well trodden route of ours. So we will publish maps, timetables, and for those with a 'tech savvy' outlook - live navigation links to the UK's Ordnance Survey Mapping software. The same as the organiser's on the day. {Due shortly}

This year we are actively seeking supporting donations so that we can [as we have done in every year previously] have a support team(s) to ferry the walkers, food, bandages, blister plasters etc., In addition as necessary, finally collect the "walking wounded" (!) - joking - but some of us have very delicate feet - and the stony footpaths can take their toll on those without practice, multiple pairs of socks {for keeping the feet cool}, good footwear, ankle support, blisters and cramps! Plus a bit of sympathy at times too!

So our donation PayPal button on this page would welcome your spontaneous generosity. Or this QR code using your phone.

Now those wishing to be at the start, we must emphasise that the walkers will hope to leave the Brighton Pier forecourt at 7:00am sharp. This is to facilitate the 8 miles to stand and take in the stunning beauty atop the "Devil's Dyke" hill within the South Downs.

As the organisation is very 'minimal' we cannot accommodate people leaving at different times - as each group would need navigational support - since so few have taken onboard the mapping software in the past. So for practical reasons, we start at one time, in a group, ideally keeping together. This will facilitate the taking of photos, Twitter, Facebook, ZHRO Live, Zim Eye Live and other media we will employ throughout the full 25-30 hours of the "Walk for Freedom"

This link is the most important, its the original detailed full route as plotted on the OS Online platform from Ordnance Survey UK. It is scaleable, in that it can be enlarged right down to individual footpath levels. If you have the OS App then you can navigate "live" in the field using your phone as a direction finder. 100km Route CLICK HERE

Timetable {Approximate}

This timetable is AN APPROXIMATION for arriving and leaving times at the locations identified with Sat Nav Post Codes

Route Maps here - Along the full Walk for Freedom

These Short Section Maps are designed to help those without Data Access "In the field" as it were. Please print off the section(s) you will be walking
USE THESE LINKS Opposite TO OPEN THE MAPS in a new Window	Itemised Map Links
Brighton Start: BN2 1TW	Brighton and suburbs
Crossing the A27	Cross A27
Towards Devil's Dyke: BN1 8YJ {Public House}	Towards Devil'd Dyke
Fulking Villiage	Down to Fulking Villiage
Crossing the Vale	Crossing the Vale
On to Henfield: BN5 9PJ	On to Henfield
Joining the "Downs Link" [An old Railway Route to Guildford]	Joining the Downs Link
Partridge Green	Partridge Green
Christ's Hospital Railway Station: RH13 0ND	Christ's Hospital
Scaling the Hill over the "Bat Tunnel"	The BAT Tunnel
Approaching Guildford {Night Time}	Approaching Guildford
Central Guildford  incl Railway Station Meet Point GU1 4UT	Guildford Area
Now with the River Wey Path	Leaving Guildford area
Keeping with the River Wey Navigation Path	River Wey Navigation
Under the M25 [into London!]	Under the M25
Meeting with the River Thames Path	Joining Thames Navigation
Following the Thames Navigation footpath to Hampton Court	Hampton Court and Finish

Ready for further Updates Here