Former OSISA Director Warns Zimbabweans: “Stay Away from Internal Fights”

Harare, Zimbabwe – A warning from former OSISA Director Siphosami Malunga has sparked intense debate after he cautioned Zimbabweans against engaging in ZANU-PF factional battles, arguing that such conflicts have historically failed to bring meaningful change to ordinary citizens.

“You would wish that Zimbabweans learned from Tekere to Zvobgo to Gamatox to G40 to Lacoste. Zanu PF factionalism will not deliver any change to the ordinary citizen. It will only reconfigure power & the predatory elite in Zanu, the army & business. Stay away from internal fights.”

Malunga’s statement, posted on social media, quickly gained traction, drawing thousands of responses from citizens, opposition supporters, and political analysts. While some agreed with his call for disengagement, others argued that fighting within ZANU-PF remains a necessary path to political change, particularly as concerns grow over President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s potential hold on power until 2030.

Public Reaction: A Divided Nation

One of the most pressing counterarguments came from Ndaba Ndabezitha (@PlainHard), who questioned what alternative course of action Malunga was suggesting:

“My learned brother, we stay away and what’s the way forward? The man has 2030 almost in his pocket. He has to be stopped. Is this not the moment?”

Others, like Ruyedzo Mutizwa (@TOITASEYI), dismissed Malunga’s stance, asserting that Zimbabweans must confront the ruling party head-on.

“Where are the external fights? We are warriors by nature (dogs of war) & will court any battle. As of now, the battlefield is in @ZANUPF_Official & we will pick a side & fight. The opposition is dead. No to 2030 nonsense & well done!”

However, many commentators supported Malunga’s position, emphasizing that ZANU-PF factional struggles have historically led to a mere reshuffling of power among elites, rather than meaningful governance reforms.

Eddie Mahembe, PhD (@eddiem…) argued that ordinary Zimbabweans should not waste energy on internal ZANU-PF fights:

“The generality of Zimbabweans should NOT be involved in the Zanu PF factional fights, especially on who is better between ED and Chiwenga. However, given the current discussion around amendments to the national constitution, I think we should mobilize against that.”

Factional Battles or Meaningful Change?

Malunga’s warning touches on a broader question: whether ZANU-PF infighting presents an opportunity for political transition or merely maintains the status quo. Historically, factional struggles—such as the ousting of former President Robert Mugabe in 2017—have led to leadership changes without fundamentally addressing corruption, governance failures, or economic decline.

His critics argue that with Zimbabwe’s opposition weakened and political institutions compromised, engaging in these internal struggles may be the only remaining path to change.

Malunga Responds to Backlash

Facing a wave of criticism, Malunga clarified his stance, emphasizing that his intention was not to dictate political choices but to caution against repeating historical mistakes.

“Everyone is free to do what works for them. Just as we are free to warn as we warned in 2017 and many years prior.”

In another response, he reiterated:

“My opinion is just my opinion. I shared a similar one in 2017 and many years prior. It should not stop you from doing what you want. Please, go ahead.”

Looking Ahead: 2030 and Beyond

Malunga’s remarks come at a time when speculation is mounting over President Mnangagwa’s long-term political plans, with many believing he aims to extend his rule until at least 2030.

The heated responses to his warning reveal a growing frustration among Zimbabweans, torn between skepticism of ZANU-PF factionalism and a desire to actively resist the current administration.

As Zimbabwe approaches another critical period in its political evolution, the question remains: Will citizens heed Malunga’s advice and avoid internal power struggles, or will they see factional conflicts as the only available avenue for resistance?