Mbalekwa’s Life Under Threat as ZANU-PF Midlands Tensions Rise

By Dr Masimba Mavaza

The political landscape in the Midlands Province has reached a boiling point, putting the life of Pearson Mbalekwa, once a close advisor to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, in jeopardy. Mbalekwa, renowned for his military and intelligence background, has become a target due to his outspoken opposition to the controversial “2030 anenge achipo” slogan, a campaign aimed at extending the President’s term.

Mbalekwa’s political journey is marked by his deep ties to Mnangagwa, dating back to their shared experiences in Zambia, where Mbalekwa served in the army. After returning to Zimbabwe post-independence, he joined the Central Intelligence Organization (CIO), later serving in various capacities, including as a ZANU-PF MP. His commitment to the party was tested during the Mugabe era when he was expelled for demanding change.

His latest conflict arises from the increasingly aggressive tactics employed by ZANU-PF’s Midlands leadership, who have instigated motions to expel members who refuse to chant the 2030 slogans. Mbalekwa’s refusal to participate has drawn ire from party officials, leading to threats of punishment. “I will never accept to be shepherded into doing something which I know is not good for the party or the President,” he asserted.

The situation escalated dramatically when Mbalekwa’s gardener reported suspicious activities around the home. On Monday, his gardener encountered an individual attempting to sneak onto his property. When questioned, the man claimed he was looking for residents at a nearby address but failed to provide a valid explanation. He subsequently left in an unmarked Toyota Canter occupied by three other individuals.

The threat became more pronounced when the gardener’s wife observed a car parked outside Mbalekwa’s gate, after Mbalekwa’s son left for work. The driver, who claimed to be sent to the same household as before, was unable to provide a legitimate reason for his presence – coincidence much. This incident has heightened concerns about Mbalekwa’s safety and the lengths to which political adversaries may go to silence dissent.

Mbalekwa has been vocal about the internal power struggles within ZANU-PF, criticizing the faction that seeks to manipulate the party for personal gain. “They don’t own the party; the party belongs to the people,” he remarked, decrying the actions of those who believe they can operate above the law. His staunch defense of constitutionalism has put him at odds with a party increasingly willing to resort to intimidation.

With the Midlands leadership reportedly employing dictatorial tactics to enforce loyalty to the 2030 campaign, Mbalekwa stands firm in his beliefs, stating, “I don’t support the idea of extending the President’s term of office because I care so much about him.” His allegiance to the President’s stated commitment to respect constitutional limits on presidential terms underscores the moral dilemma facing many within the party.

As tensions rise, Mbalekwa’s situation serves as a cautionary tale about the volatile nature of Zimbabwean politics, where loyalty can quickly turn into a life-threatening liability. The coming days may prove critical as Mbalekwa prepares to face potential disciplinary actions, remaining resolute in his defense of the constitution and the principles he believes in.

As the political climate grows more perilous, the nation watches closely. Will Mbalekwa’s courage inspire others to stand against the tide, or will the prevailing culture of fear silence dissent once and for all?