Explosive Zanu-PF conference roars into life

Zanu-PF's National People's Conference opened in Harare yesterday with a Politburo meeting at the party's headquarters, setting the tone for what observers predict will be a highly charged gathering.

The conference, which continues with a Central Committee meeting today before shifting to Mutare for the main proceedings, comes amid growing internal divisions over proposals to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa's term beyond 2028.

Mnangagwa, whose second and final term under the national Constitution ends in 2028, faces pressure from factions within the ruling party pushing for a resolution to allow him to remain in office until 2030 — a move that has stirred significant debate.

In his opening remarks, Mnangagwa hit out at those he said were working against the party's vision and government-led programmes.

"Shame, shame, shame on all those who are denigrating our national interests and ongoing people-centred projects and programmes," he said. "We are Zanu-PF and will not be deterred. We reject the harmful characterisation of our party and country."

The President also expressed concern over rising violent crimes, including ritual killings, sexual abuse, and other forms of violence targeting women and children.

"We are a nation where the sanctity of life is honoured, celebrated and preciously safeguarded. Those who have a propensity to take advantage of our national character trait have no place in our country," he said.

Mnangagwa added that this year's conference was not a mere formality but an important platform for party structures to consolidate ideas, aspirations and recommendations from across the country.

He urged politburo members chairing committees during the conference to ensure that issues were robustly debated, saying the gathering provided a vital opportunity to strengthen the party's unity and policy direction.