Zanu PF activists call for Mnangagwa life presidency

A section of Zanu PF supporters has called for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to be declared Zimbabwe’s life president, citing what they describe as his “exceptionally” visionary leadership and economic transformation.

The call is contained in a letter dated 25 August 2026, addressed to Zanu PF National Political Commissar Munyaradzi Machacha under the subject: “Declaration of Emmerson Mnangagwa Life Presidency.”

The authors praise Mnangagwa’s leadership, claiming Zimbabwe has witnessed significant economic and infrastructural developments since he assumed office. “Our President, Mnangagwa, has exceptionally shown traits of true, astute, visionary leadership,” the letter reads.

They argue that projects previously considered white elephants are now being completed and that Zimbabwe has embarked on new developments across sectors. They cite a claimed 3.2 percent year‑on‑year inflation rate for July 2026 as evidence of what they describe as a positive economic trajectory.

“This economic trajectory signifies how Zimbabwe has risen to be one of Africa’s economic powerhouses under the leadership of Cde E.D. Mnangagwa,” they said.

The letter lists farming, mining, health, security, aviation, manufacturing and production as sectors that the authors say have experienced significant growth. They also highlight the emergence of wealthy businesspeople — naming Pedzai Scott Sakupwanya, Kuda Regimond Tagwirei, Paul Temptor Tungwarara and Sir Wicknell Chivhayo — as examples of economic transformation.

They cite growth in artisanal mining and reiterate Government’s target of a US$12 billion mining economy. The construction of the Manhize steel plant, lithium processing facilities and rehabilitation of old infrastructure, including the railway network, are also listed as achievements. The authors describe value addition as having “taken root” and praise the Mutapa Investment Fund’s intervention in the mining sector.

The supporters further commend Mnangagwa for appointing young people to positions of authority, naming ministers Tatenda Mavetera, Tino Machakaire, Itai Ndudzo and Vangelis Haritatos. They also mention entertainers such as Comic Elder, Frets Donzvo, Feli Nandi and Mambo Dhuterere as examples of youth empowerment.

The group invokes religious language, claiming Mnangagwa has won widespread support and describing him as a “God‑fearing man”. They list religious leaders — including Pastor Idirashe Dongo, Bishop Madawo, Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa, Bishop Nehemiah Mutendi, Madzibaba Moses Gwasira, Madzibaba Owen Velvet and Madzibaba Obey Mapuranga — as beneficiaries of empowerment under his administration.

“Almost every Zimbabwean is now convinced and believe that Mnangagwa is our chosen leader who will leave Zimbabwe in the Land of Canaan where honey and milk flows,” they said.

The demand for a life presidency comes amid ongoing debate within Zanu PF and the wider country over Mnangagwa’s tenure and succession, particularly proposals seeking to extend his presidency beyond constitutional limits. The letter does not explain how a life presidency would be reconciled with Zimbabwe’s constitutional provisions governing presidential terms.

This development feeds into broader national conversations around succession politics and constitutional governance.