President Emmerson Mnangagwa did not attend the funeral of several ZANU-PF aides who tragically lost their lives in a road accident while travelling to celebrate his birthday. The accident, which occurred earlier this week, claimed the lives of multiple party supporters, leaving the nation and the ruling party in mourning.
The aides had been travelling in a convoy towards a private venue where the President’s birthday festivities were scheduled. Eyewitnesses reported that the vehicles, moving in close formation, collided with another vehicle along a busy highway, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. Authorities confirmed the identities of those who died, noting that most were long-time party loyalists who had actively supported Mnangagwa’s political career.
Despite the tragedy directly involving his supporters, President Mnangagwa was notably absent from the funeral proceedings. State media sources cited “prior commitments” as the reason for his non-attendance, though critics argue that the timing of his birthday celebrations overshadowed the significance of the funeral.
The absence of the President sparked mixed reactions across political and social circles. ZANU-PF insiders acknowledged the loss of committed aides but appeared divided on how to publicly address the President’s non-attendance. Some party members expressed disappointment, suggesting that attending the funeral would have demonstrated solidarity and respect for loyalists who had dedicated their lives to the party’s cause.
Opposition leaders were quick to condemn the President’s absence, framing it as an example of the disconnect between the ruling elite and ordinary supporters. “These were people who sacrificed their time and safety to celebrate their leader,” said a spokesperson from the Citizens Coalition for Change. “To skip their funeral for personal celebrations sends a troubling message about priorities and leadership accountability.”
Social media platforms were flooded with reactions, with many citizens expressing grief over the loss and frustration at what they perceived as a lack of empathy from the highest office. Hashtags related to the tragedy trended nationwide, highlighting public debate over leadership, responsibility, and the value of party loyalists.
President Mnangagwa Absent as Burial Held for Aides Killed En Route to Birthday Celebration
The tragedy comes at a sensitive moment for ZANU-PF, which is navigating internal divisions over succession planning. President Mnangagwa is constitutionally set to leave office by 2028, but reports indicate that certain factions are lobbying for him to extend his stay. Meanwhile, rival groups within the party, including those aligned with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, are positioning themselves for future leadership.
The accident and subsequent funeral underscore the personal risks faced by party supporters, who often travel long distances to attend political events and celebrations. Analysts note that incidents like this highlight the broader pressures on ZANU-PF as it attempts to maintain cohesion amid leadership uncertainty.
The funeral was held in the victims’ hometowns, with local officials, clergy, and party members attending to pay their respects. Tributes poured in from family, friends, and colleagues, describing the deceased as dedicated, hard-working, and loyal to both the President and the party. Speeches emphasized the importance of remembering their contributions and continuing their work in political and social development.
Cultural and religious rituals were observed, with ceremonies combining traditional rites and formal memorial services. The funeral organisers also called for improved road safety measures, noting that accidents involving party convoys are a recurring concern in Zimbabwe.
The accident has reignited discussions about road safety, party accountability, and leadership visibility during crises. Experts suggest that high-profile funerals present opportunities for leaders to demonstrate empathy and connect with grassroots supporters. In this instance, critics argue, the President’s absence overshadowed the loss and left a void in public reassurance.
Meanwhile, citizens continue to mourn the lives lost, with many emphasizing that the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the human cost behind political events and celebrations. Road safety advocates are calling for stricter enforcement of convoy regulations and driver training, particularly for political gatherings that require extensive travel.
The death of ZANU-PF aides en route to President Mnangagwa’s birthday celebration marks a somber moment for the party and the nation. While the funeral provided a space for collective mourning and reflection, the President’s absence has sparked debate over leadership priorities and public responsibility. As Zimbabweans continue to process the tragedy, calls for greater accountability and attention to supporter welfare are expected to intensify, reinforcing the delicate balance between personal celebrations and public duty in political life.
Source- ZimEye
