Tshabangu proposes unity government with Zanu-PF

In a dramatic political twist, Sengezo Tshabangu, the controversial self-declared interim secretary-general of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), has reportedly proposed a unity government with Zanu-PF that would suspend national elections for two years - potentially paving the way for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to stay in power until 2030.

Sources close to the developments say Tshabangu has approached Zanu-PF leaders with the proposal, which would sidestep both a constitutional referendum and parliamentary processes currently being pushed by Mnangagwa's loyalists in the ruling party. The "2030 plot," as it has come to be known, is facing internal resistance from a Zanu-PF faction aligned with Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga.

According to insiders, Tshabangu's overture seeks to establish a transitional unity government as a way to stabilise the political and economic climate, arguing that frequent, disputed elections have become toxic and counterproductive for national development.

Speaking to The Standard, Tshabangu's spokesperson Nqobizitha Mlilo defended the proposal, stating: "Our people cannot afford to continue to be served in a cycle of disputed elections. People have gone through at least five or six disputed elections, and the result has been the same – an arrested economy that offers no prospect for a better life."

Mlilo further argued that postponing elections to 2030 would allow the country to "reset" and initiate an inclusive national dialogue.

"If 2030 is the consequence of our national dialogue and elections are postponed, so be it," he added. "But that is not the primary consideration. It becomes the product of dialogue, not the end in itself."

Tshabangu's position within the CCC remains deeply contested following a High Court ruling that nullified all elected positions from the party's 2019 Gweru congress. This has left the opposition fractured, with a rival faction led by Welshman Ncube fighting to wrest back control from Tshabangu.

Despite the internal chaos, Tshabangu's overtures have drawn attention from Zanu-PF's leadership. Party spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa welcomed the proposal, describing it as a "noble idea" and an opportunity for constructive national dialogue.

"We must build rapport and understanding with each other at the leadership level," Mutsvangwa said. "This creates the parameters upon which any process can proceed and succeed."

He also likened Tshabangu's approach to the post-election peace process in Mozambique, where rival leaders initiated dialogue to avoid political violence and national disintegration.

"Our president has always championed dialogue, although it faced challenges along the way. But with the buy-in of Tshabangu, that idea is gaining traction," Mutsvangwa said.

However, critics have raised alarm over the possible implications of the unity government plan. With Mnangagwa already in his second and final term, any move to suspend elections or extend his tenure would require a constitutional amendment - a process requiring a two-thirds majority in Parliament and, under normal circumstances, a referendum.

Zanu-PF currently holds a parliamentary supermajority but would still need some support from opposition legislators to amend the constitution without public input. Tshabangu's alliance may be the political key to unlock that pathway.

Analysts have warned that such a move could erode democratic accountability and deepen public mistrust.

"Any suspension of elections must be approached with extreme caution," said one political analyst. "It risks undermining constitutional order and setting a dangerous precedent in a country where democracy is already fragile."

Meanwhile, the push for Mnangagwa's extended rule - supported by a growing number of Zanu-PF lawmakers - continues despite internal resistance and growing public criticism. Whether Tshabangu's proposal will reshape the political landscape or ignite new divisions remains to be seen.