Exiled musician Thomas Mapfumo has urged for a complete overhaul of Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu-PF, despite President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s recent pledge not to seek another term beyond 2028.
Mnangagwa made this promise during a speech in Mutare while inaugurating a processing plant at Mutare Teachers’ College. He asserted that his current term will be his last, emphasizing plans for succession at an upcoming party congress. Mapfumo, a vocal critic of Mnangagwa’s government, dismissed the president’s assurances as insincere. He called on Zimbabweans not to be swayed, labeling Zanu-PF as inherently corrupt and arguing that merely replacing Mnangagwa would not suffice. Instead, he advocated for a complete overhaul of the ruling party. Mapfumo pointed to Vice President Constantino Chiwenga as a potential successor waiting in the wings.
In an interview with Standard Style, Mapfumo emphasized the urgency for citizens to take decisive action, endorsing protests similar to those seen in Kenya as a means to drive societal change. He criticized opposition leader Nelson Chamisa for what he perceived as inaction, asserting that silence only serves to reinforce Zanu-PF’s grip on power.
Mapfumo’s remarks highlight ongoing political tensions in Zimbabwe, contrasting with Mnangagwa’s public commitment to adhere to constitutional limits on his tenure.
In other news – Biden announces decision not to run again for US president
President Joe Biden has announced his decision not to run for re-election, citing the best interests of his party and the nation. This announcement, made just four months before the upcoming elections, significantly alters the landscape of the presidential race.
Biden’s choice follows mounting pressure from fellow Democrats, particularly after a challenging debate performance against Republican Donald Trump at the end of June. In a letter shared on his social media, Biden expressed deep gratitude for the honor of serving as president, stating, “While I had intended to seek re-election, I believe stepping aside now is best for my party and the country, allowing me to focus entirely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.” Read More
