In a recent address at the 379th Ordinary Session of the Politburo in Harare, Zanu PF leader and President Emmerson Mnangagwa asserted that integrity is paramount within his party, stating unequivocally, “Zanu PF is a party of honest people.” This declaration came as he carefully sidestepped the controversial topic of a potential third term.

Instead, Mnangagwa focused on strengthening regional alliances and addressing urgent national issues. He began his remarks by congratulating Mozambique’s ruling party, FRELIMO, on what he termed their “resounding victory” in the recent elections, despite ongoing disputes over the legitimacy of the polls. He emphasized the importance of solidarity, saying, “I would like to congratulate our sister party FRELIMO on its resounding victory in elections in Mozambique.”

Shifting the conversation to domestic matters, Mnangagwa highlighted the Zanu PF government’s readiness to tackle food insecurity amid ongoing drought conditions.

“We are ready to deal with the effects of drought,” he asserted, underscoring a proactive approach to one of the nation’s most pressing challenges.

Reinforcing the party’s image, he remarked, “Our party respects key principles and values that guide our ideology. We represent people’s values.”

This statement seems aimed at bolstering confidence among party members and the broader electorate, reaffirming the party’s commitment to integrity and public service.

By avoiding any mention of the third term debate, Mnangagwa appears to be strategically navigating potential backlash while emphasizing party loyalty and regional cooperation. This approach may be designed to maintain unity within Zanu PF and mitigate dissent as the Zanu PF Annual Conference begins.

As discussions around leadership and governance intensify, Mnangagwa’s ability to address complex issues without exacerbating tensions will be closely watched, particularly in light of his strong assertion that “there are no thieves in Zanu PF.”