Mnangagwa preparing for a Coalition of Patriots

I spent past several months resisting to write a commentary about the going on in Zimbabwe. As a political junkie, I read Zimbabwe news daily. What I did differently this time was to read all news (all political parties) and attend some rallies with completely an open mind.

What I learned in those few months opened my mind. A few months back, my perception about Mnangagwa and his top leadership's technical savvy was anachronistic because there was no Internet of Things (IoT) during their youth generation. I was surprised to find that Mnangagwa and his leadership are very present on Facebook, tweeter, Instagram and even creating campaign mobile apps. As I mentioned earlier, I read much political commentaries and was surprised to see some citizens' extreme antipathy for ED that keeps them from embracing and engaging into constructive conversation with their leader. The guy has opened a clear channel for any citizen to be heard, a total departure from his predecessor.

A case in point is the recent bombings at White City stadium where ZANU PF was holding a rally. Soon after the bomb, there was wild speculation on social media from citizens who feared that the constitution was going to be temporarily put in abeyance and the army taking over the administration of the country. I got forwarded messages squarely putting the bomb blame on ED and categorically stating that this was a façade to suspend elections.

This worldview predominant in our society resulted in me losing some people I regarded as good friends. It was difficult to fathom why the citizens were sinking so low in the face of adversity; what happened to human empathy during times of tragedy I asked them? I was irritated. Nevertheless, ED did not disappoint the country and the international community, he remained calm. He stayed in Bulawayo to support his cadres and provide the much-needed leadership in times of crisis. His subsequent interviews with international media was comforting; he calmed the nation that was otherwise on the edge.

 And as the election day draws closer, the various scenarios being peddled on the campaign trail by different players seems more and more apocryphal. The ZANU PF leaders seems to me that they want to work with everyone in the country to normalize the country's economic fortunes. They have opened the country not only for the international community but also for all Zimbabweans ready to jump on the band wagon.

What I have seen is an opening for people to responsibly express themselves and to advocate and advance for ideas that will improve the lot of Zimbabweans. What the leadership wants is a responsible citizen capable of shaping the discussion in our country. Many people are in disbelief hence are not taking full advantage of the opened political and economic space.

Mnangagwa has created a level playing field for anyone; Your political affiliation does not matter; he is interested in positive people who can shape the discussion for a positive Zimbabwe. My conclusion is he wants to incorporate everyone with something to offer into his government. He is using the people of Zimbabwe as a barometer; if they accept your vision for the country then leadership will embrace you and you will be part of a future Zimbabwe.

I can confidently say this because realistically, there is no chance of an election upset on July 30th. Mnangagwa is confident to win the elections with only three provinces, Manicaland, Masvingo, and Matebeleland. Remember only 5.6 million people registered to vote and two-thirds of those voters are from those 3 provinces mentioned.

Exciting times are lying ahead for our country!