Published: 19 September 2025

President Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday issued a stern warning to elements within Zanu-PF accused of sabotaging the ruling party, declaring that those unwilling to stay the course should step aside rather than derail the movement.

Addressing a Central Committee meeting at the party's national headquarters in Harare, Mnangagwa said no individual or faction was bigger than Zanu-PF, which must remain united as it prepares for the 2028 harmonised elections.

"There is no one person or group of people who own the party. There is no one who is superior to others. Collectively, we are what Zimbabwe is; we are what Zimbabwe can be. Never look down upon yourselves or others," Mnangagwa said.

"If you want to stop the Zanu-PF train, beware of getting crushed. You can wait on the sideway and remain quiet. When your energy comes back, you can then rejoin the train."

The remarks come amid intensifying factional battles over succession. A section of Mnangagwa's allies has been pushing for a constitutional amendment to extend his rule to 2030, angering those who insist he must retire at the end of his second term in 2028. The President has publicly indicated that he will step down when his tenure ends.

Mnangagwa stressed that divisive elements and corruption would not be tolerated, calling for discipline and clean governance across all levels of the party.

"Party cadres serving as office bearers in local authorities and in the National Assembly are challenged to remain embedded in communities, addressing their needs through tangible and transformational projects," he said.

"We must never trivialise or take for granted the trust and confidence bestowed on us by the people when they resoundingly voted for our colossal party."

He urged Central Committee members to prioritise grassroots mobilisation, integrity, and loyalty to the party's vision under the National Development Strategy and Vision 2030.

"All Zimbabweans are welcome in Zanu-PF, and all of us have a role to play for the prosperity of our beloved motherland," he said. "Corruption of any kind and excesses that alienate us from the people can never be condoned. Integrity, discipline, and unity must be synonymous with Zanu-PF."

Mnangagwa concluded by urging the party to focus on strategies that will secure a resounding victory in 2028, underscoring that only loyalty, discipline, and service to the people would safeguard Zanu-PF's legacy.
- Newsday

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