Zanu-PF using rice to sway public opinion on term extension

As the "ED 2030" agenda gains traction, some Zanu-PF Members of Parliament (MPs) are accused of politicizing food aid intended for vulnerable communities. The rice, distributed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa to MPs and senators in December 2024, is being used to rally support for the extension of his presidential term, amid ongoing discussions about a potential referendum.

The four tonnes of rice allocated to each MP and senator were initially meant for distribution to needy communities before Christmas. However, sources say that some MPs have failed to distribute the rice on time and are now using the food aid to garner political support for the controversial "ED 2030" agenda. These MPs are reportedly distributing the rice to party loyalists and supporters, with recipients being encouraged to support Mnangagwa's extended rule.

Political observers have raised concerns about the misappropriation of the aid, claiming that it is being used to sway public opinion ahead of a potential referendum. "The rice meant for vulnerable communities is now being given to Zanu-PF supporters. Those with opposition sympathies are being deliberately excluded from the process," said a source within the ruling party.

When contacted for comment, Zanu-PF Masvingo Provincial Chairperson Robson Mavhenyengwa denied any political motives behind the rice distribution. He stated that the rice was being distributed to all citizens, regardless of political affiliation, and that it was meant to benefit the most vulnerable members of society.

"The rice is being distributed to anyone, without considering party affiliation. It came from the President, and everyone can benefit. The MPs call people to different centers, and when they get there, they share it with everyone who shows up," Mavhenyengwa explained.

However, he acknowledged that opposition supporters sometimes refuse to participate in the distribution events, especially if they are organized by Zanu-PF MPs or councilors. "We do have a challenge with opposition members who do not attend when they are called by Zanu-PF representatives, and then they complain after missing out," Mavhenyengwa said.

The Masvingo Provincial Chairperson also confirmed that party leadership, including employees who work for Zanu-PF without salaries, were among the recipients. He insisted that these individuals, who are considered vulnerable, also deserved to benefit from the rice distribution.

"Yes, I gave the party employees the rice, just like any other citizen. They work for the party without salaries, so they are vulnerable like everyone else. I also intend to give some to civil servants, as they too are in need," Mavhenyengwa added.

Despite these assurances, party insiders claim that the distribution process is being heavily controlled by party structures, with Zanu-PF chairpersons ensuring that opposition members are excluded. "They use their party structures to call people, making it difficult for those who are seen as opposition supporters to benefit. They also claim the rice came from the Zanu-PF president, so only Zanu-PF supporters should receive it. We're left wondering if he isn't also the President of Zimbabwe," said one anonymous source.

The controversy surrounding the distribution of the rice comes amid growing calls for the extension of Mnangagwa's presidency beyond 2028. Zanu-PF's Bikita South legislator, Energy Mutodi, has reportedly moved a motion to extend the presidential term, with some members of the opposition, including Charles Moyo from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), allegedly supporting the move.

As the debate over Mnangagwa's term extension intensifies, the politicization of food aid highlights the ongoing tensions within Zimbabwe's political landscape. Critics argue that the use of state resources for political gain undermines the integrity of the country's democratic processes and further polarizes an already divided electorate.