Harare, Zimbabwe – August 14, 2024 – Former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa has once again stirred the political pot by calling for negotiations with President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Chamisa’s latest push, articulated in an interview with Newsday on August 13, 2024, is being met with skepticism, particularly because of his prior refusal to engage in established political dialogues like the Political Actors Dialogue (POLAD).
President Mnangagwa’s Stance on Dialogue
President Mnangagwa has always shown an openness to dialogue with any political leader who brings forward ideas beneficial to the country. However, Chamisa’s latest overtures are viewed by many as self-serving, especially given his diminished political standing after stepping down as the leader of CCC. Without a significant political base or a clear constituency, Chamisa’s call for exclusive talks with the President appears to be more about personal gain than national interest.
The Zimbabwean leader’s approach to governance emphasizes development through collective effort, as seen in the successful launch of initiatives like POLAD after the 2018 elections. POLAD was specifically designed to bring together all presidential election candidates who lost to discuss and negotiate on national issues. However, Chamisa’s refusal to participate in POLAD at the time signaled his preference for being treated differently, a stance that has done little to endear him to those committed to Zimbabwe’s progress.
Zimbabwe’s Progress Post-2023 Elections
Since the 2023 elections, President Mnangagwa has been focused on implementing policies that drive Zimbabwe’s development forward. The country’s infrastructure has seen significant improvements, with projects such as road construction, healthcare expansion, and the introduction of the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency in April 2024, which has stabilized the economy and helped control inflation.
These advancements have been made without the need for any special negotiations, contradicting Chamisa’s assertion that talks between him and Mnangagwa are essential for the country’s future. The ZiG currency, in particular, has been embraced by Zimbabweans across the board, providing a stable alternative to the US dollar and boosting confidence in the local economy.
SADC Summit: A Testament to Mnangagwa’s Leadership
Zimbabwe’s ability to host the SADC Heads of State Summit without incident further underscores President Mnangagwa’s leadership. Preparations for the summit, which brings together leaders from across Southern Africa, have been seamless, with the President showcasing Zimbabwe’s progress on the international stage. Chamisa’s absence from the political spotlight has not hindered the nation’s ability to function or thrive.
Conclusion: Time for Chamisa to Move On
As Zimbabwe continues to move forward, it is time for Nelson Chamisa to accept the political reality. His push for negotiations with President Mnangagwa appears increasingly out of touch with the needs of the nation. Instead of seeking special treatment, Chamisa should acknowledge that he has missed his opportunities and focus on contributing to Zimbabwe’s development in other ways.
