Former Cabinet minister and political strategist Professor Jonathan Moyo has ignited fresh debate in Zimbabwean political circles after posting a cryptic message on social media, saying “Dzimwe hondo hadzisi necessary” (Some wars are not necessary), alongside a song by popular musician Jah Prayzah. The post comes amid serious accusations of treason leveled against him by Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga.
Chiwenga, a former army general and architect of the 2017 coup that ousted former President Robert Mugabe, claims that Jonathan Moyo authored a confidential parliamentary document titled “Breaking Barriers Initiative: Putting Zimbabwe First.” According to Chiwenga, the document purportedly advocates changes to Zimbabwe’s governance system and proposes postponing the 2028 elections to 2035. These allegations were reportedly presented to President Emmerson Mnangagwa and senior Zanu-PF leadership — including the Presidium and Politburo — during confidential meetings held on 17 September.
The timing of the accusations is significant, coming just days before the ruling party’s annual national conference in Mutare, scheduled from 13 to 18 October. Analysts suggest that the dispute highlights the intensifying succession struggle within Zanu-PF, particularly between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga. Observers warn that such internal factionalism carries the risk of political and economic instability, which could have regional consequences, especially in South Africa, home to millions of Zimbabwean migrants.
Jonathan Moyo, however, has refused to be intimidated. In response to the allegations, he published a commentary describing Zimbabwean politics as increasingly weaponized, where smear campaigns and unproven claims are used to silence rivals. He wrote:
“In the shadowy corridors of Zimbabwean politics, an old proverb has taken a sinister hold: ‘If you want to kill your dog, allege it has rabies.’ This chilling adage is now wielded by politicians who, lacking ideas or vision, resort to smearing rivals with unverified criminal claims. Their accusations are scattered across political bureaus and social media, serving nefarious agendas rather than justice.”
By sharing Jah Prayzah’s song alongside his message, Moyo appeared to emphasize themes of restraint, caution, and the unnecessary nature of conflict. The song, titled Necessary, reflects on disputes that arise from anger and misunderstanding, urging reconciliation over confrontation. Its lyrics resonate with the current political climate, as Moyo seeks to frame the treason allegations as an avoidable escalation within Zanu-PF.
The English translation of the song’s chorus underscores its message:
“Some battles come with confusion… Some wars are not necessary.”
Other lyrics caution against acting impulsively and highlight the importance of unity and careful communication, mirroring Moyo’s broader argument that internal factional disputes can have far-reaching consequences if mishandled. In the Shona original, the lines “Kungoparadzana, pasina mharadzano, dai tiripamwepo taipana mazano, kurekure nehama ndiko kune nhamo and hazvizi necessary” emphasize that conflict between close allies or family is unnecessary and often self-defeating.
Observers note that Moyo’s use of music to convey a political point is strategic, allowing him to communicate with the public in a way that blends culture and commentary while avoiding direct confrontation. By invoking Jah Prayzah, Moyo taps into national sentiment and shared cultural understanding, framing his response as thoughtful rather than reactive.
Jonathan Moyo Fires Back at Treason Allegations, Channels Jah Prayzah in Cryptic Response
Political analysts warn that the allegations and Jonathan Moyo rebuttals are more than personal disputes; they are emblematic of the larger power struggle shaping Zimbabwe’s political trajectory. As the Mutare conference unfolds, all eyes are on the party’s leadership to determine whether internal divisions can be contained or whether the Mnangagwa-Chiwenga rivalry will dominate proceedings.
Jonathan Moyo’s posts and public statements suggest that he will continue to resist intimidation while warning of the consequences of deepening factionalism. His invocation of cultural symbols like Jah Prayzah’s song underscores his effort to speak to Zimbabweans beyond traditional political rhetoric, urging reflection on the costs of unnecessary conflict.
As tensions rise ahead of the conference, the interplay between accusations, personal defenses, and symbolic messaging — such as Jonathan Moyo’s use of music — could influence both the succession narrative within Zanu-PF and the broader stability of Zimbabwe’s governance. Analysts agree that the coming days will be critical in shaping not only the party’s internal power dynamics but also the country’s political future.
Jonathan Moyo’s choice of Necessary reflects a clear message: while political disputes are inevitable, escalation and infighting are not. By pairing words with cultural resonance, he aims to remind both allies and opponents that wisdom, caution, and measured dialogue remain vital in the current political landscape.
Source- Bulawayo24
