Mnangagwa condemns social media misuse by Senior Zanu-PF members

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has issued a stern warning to senior ZANU-PF members over the misuse of social media to create divisions and discord within the party. Speaking during the 380th Session of the Politburo in Harare yesterday, the President emphasized the importance of unity and discipline among party members, urging them to cease using online platforms for airing internal matters.

President Mnangagwa expressed disappointment over the "unbecoming levels of mud-slinging" and counter-revolutionary tendencies exhibited by some members, which he said were damaging the party's reputation and confusing its membership base. He stressed that such behavior would not be tolerated, stating, "No one must put our party into disrepute. This is unacceptable. Such behaviour cannot be tolerated and must stop."

The President reminded members of their obligation to adhere to the party's constitution, principles, and procedural integrity. He called for prudence in addressing party matters, emphasizing the need to use appropriate party structures and organs to resolve issues.

He also highlighted the importance of fostering unity and a positive culture within the party. "Let us do more to unite the party and entrench a positive culture of common purpose, harmony, and love, as we advance our party vision and mission," he said.

In response to the misuse of social media, President Mnangagwa announced that a comprehensive social media policy is being developed to guide party members on appropriate online conduct.

Looking ahead to 2025, the President urged the party's leadership to focus on sustaining the development momentum achieved so far. He called for efforts to expand the party's membership base, particularly in rural and urban communities, while promoting political awareness and countering misinformation.

Reflecting on the year's achievements, President Mnangagwa acknowledged the progress made despite the challenges posed by illegal sanctions. He highlighted notable successes in infrastructure development, industrialization, and economic growth, driven by the national development philosophy, "Nyika inovakwa, inotongwa, inonamatigwa nevene vayo" (A country is built, governed, and prayed for by its owners).

The President cited several recent development milestones, including the commissioning of the Shurugwi-Mhandamabwe Road, the expansion of Varun Beverages facilities, and the launch of the US$1 billion Titan New Energy Plant. He emphasized the importance of revitalizing the iron and steel sector, noting the successful convening of the Zimbabwe Iron and Steel Indaba.

He commended party members for their dedication and servant leadership throughout the year, attributing the success of various programmes to their efforts. "Your individual and collective efforts were instrumental in the success of party programmes and activities. Congratulations on a job well done," he said.

The President also praised the Herbert Chitepo School of Ideology for its role in leadership training and capacity building, particularly through its partnership with the Julius Nyerere School of Leadership. He urged the institution to remain aligned with its founding objectives, fostering patriotism and Pan-Africanism among party members.

As the year draws to a close, President Mnangagwa's message underscores the need for unity, discipline, and a commitment to advancing ZANU-PF's goals and Zimbabwe's development.