Political finance disbursements: Zanu-PF to get lion's share

ZANU-PF is expected to receive the largest share of the ZIG162 million allocated to political parties in the 2026 National Budget under the Political Parties Finance Act, following its dominant performance in the 2023 general elections.

According to Treasury's Estimates of Expenditure, qualifying political parties have been allocated ZIG162,719 million, with eligibility determined by attaining at least five percent of the total votes cast in a general election. Based on this threshold, only ZANU-PF and the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) qualify for the funding.

ZANU-PF secured a commanding victory in the 2023 polls, winning 137 constituency seats compared to CCC's 33. When proportional representation seats are included — 60 women's seats and 10 youth seats — ZANU-PF's total representation in the National Assembly rises to 176 seats against CCC's 103, giving the ruling party a clear majority.

However, allocations under the Political Parties Finance Act are calculated primarily on the basis of performance in the 210 directly contested constituencies. With no minor parties or independents securing significant victories, all Members of Parliament fall under either ZANU-PF or CCC.

Preliminary calculations indicate that ZANU-PF is likely to receive approximately ZIG106 million from the allocation, while CCC is expected to get around ZIG56 million.

The Political Parties Finance Act was introduced after concerns emerged that some opposition parties were receiving funding from foreign governments and organisations, allegedly as part of covert efforts to influence Zimbabwe's political processes. The Act criminalises the receipt of foreign funding by political parties and restricts public financing to those that meet the stipulated electoral threshold.

Under the law, political parties may lawfully raise funds through Government grants, membership subscriptions, the sale of party cards and fundraising activities, among other permitted sources.

In line with tightening controls on political financing, Government has also enacted the Private Voluntary Organisations Act, which prohibits non-governmental organisations from campaigning for political parties or candidates. Authorities have argued that the law was necessary after civic organisations were allegedly used as conduits for political activities linked to foreign interests.

The Treasury allocation underscores the continued dominance of ZANU-PF in Zimbabwe's electoral politics, while also highlighting the growing financial gap between the ruling party and the opposition as preparations for future political contests continue.