Using the President’s Name: A PR Blown? The Sacrifice of Freedom Fighters: A Call to Reconnect with the True Spirit of Liberation

By Dr. Masimba Mavaza

Word on the street is that some folks are using the president’s name to flash cash—but it’s backfiring, big time. Not exactly the best PR for the party, if you know what I mean.

Think it’s going to hurt their rep?

There’s growing concern that certain individuals are using President ED’s name to flaunt wealth, potentially damaging the party’s reputation.

While it’s quite clear who’s behind this, it’s equally clear that such behavior isn’t doing the party any favors.

It reflects a lack of patriotism among the money-loaded cadres.

This move has raised questions about the motivations behind it and its impact on the party’s image. Is it a case of individuals trying to gain favor, or just a blatant display of wealth?

Zimbabweans are not fooled—those handing out fifty thousand pounds at rallies are the same ones receiving multimillion-dollar tenders behind the scenes.

They are not genuine benefactors, but clear opportunists.

Either way, it’s likely to have negative consequences for the party.

As one insider put it, “They’re not doing the party any good.” I prefer Chivhayo—he does his madness, but he’s not asking to lead the party, and he has refused to be used by factions. Still, one day, he too will have to account for his millions.

This incident highlights the challenges of maintaining a positive public image, especially when some individuals prioritize personal gain over party interests.Is this a sign of deeper issues or just a few rogue individuals?

The Power of Ideology Over Bribery: A Call to ZANU PF to Act on This Decay

In the midst of Zimbabwe’s complex political landscape, a stark warning has emerged from within the ranks of ZANU PF itself.

Paul Tungwarara’s approach to winning support has drawn criticism, with some arguing that he’s making a grave mistake by relying on monetary handouts rather than ideological conviction.

The war veteran and politician’s emphasis on material incentives has sparked concerns that his strategy is short-sighted.

As one observer noted, “Money does not stay long in the minds of people, but ideology is forever.”

This phrase encapsulates the fear that Tungwarara’s focus on short-term gains will ultimately undermine the party’s long-term prospects.

The argument is that true loyalty and support can only be built on the foundation of shared values and ideology—not fleeting financial rewards.

By prioritizing the latter, Tungwarara risks alienating those genuinely committed to the party’s principles and ideals.

This debate highlights the tension between pragmatism and principle in politics.

While monetary incentives may yield short-term results, they can also erode the party’s moral authority and foster a culture of transactional politics.

Can you imagine party members who were injured while campaigning receiving only a chicken, while someone who danced vulgarly gets a Ford Ranger?

Who is being insulted here? Rewarding the lazy turns the party into a party of beggars.

As ZANU PF navigates its internal conflicts and looks to the future, it must prioritize the power of ideology over the allure of bribery.

Only then can the party hope to build a sustainable and meaningful connection with the Zimbabwean people.

The struggle for Zimbabwe’s independence was a defining moment in the nation’s history.

It was a time when brave individuals—including President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Vice President Chiwenga, Vice President Mohadi, General Rugeje, my brother Brigadier General Kufa, and many others—abandoned comfort and took up arms, risking everything to fight for freedom.

These freedom fighters were not motivated by personal gain or financial reward; they were driven by a deep-seated desire for liberation and a better future for their country.

Their sacrifice should inspire humility and dedication in those who now lead the nation.

Instead, the recent trend of waving money to buy support and demand positions within the party is an affront to the blood shed during the war.

It’s a stark reminder that the spirit of liberation is being compromised by self-interest.

The freedom fighters didn’t fight for personal wealth or power; they fought for the dignity and well-being of Zimbabweans.

Their legacy demands that those in positions of power prioritize the nation’s interests over personal ambition.

The practice of buying support undermines the party’s credibility and insults the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom.

It’s time for ZANU PF to reconnect with the true spirit of liberation and prioritize ideology over personal gain.

True leadership is about inspiring and serving others—not accumulating wealth and power.

The freedom fighters showed us that much.

Let’s honour their memory by putting the nation’s needs above individual interests.

Remember: ZANU is the people, and the people are Zanu.