Mnangagwa Praises Second Republic For “Transforming Economy” – Eduzim News

Tinashe Sambiri– Despite President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s claims that the Second Republic is transforming the economy, critics argue that ordinary Zimbabweans are still struggling with worsening living conditions, rising prices, and stagnant wages.

At the 390th Ordinary Session of the Politburo on Wednesday, the President lauded ZANU PF for its recent strategic seminars, saying they reinforced “patriotism, loyalty, discipline, ideological clarity and servant leadership” and strengthened the Party’s ideological base.

He also highlighted “steady progress in macro-economic stabilisation and overall social development” as evidence of the Party’s effectiveness.

However, analysts say these statements do not reflect the reality on the ground. Basic commodities remain unaffordable for many, fuel shortages are widespread, and unemployment continues to rise.

A senior ZANU PF source acknowledged that while the Party is “committed to implementing reforms and programmes across all departments,” much of the effort has been focused on appearances rather than tangible benefits for citizens.

The source said:
“We are making sure Party programmes are implemented everywhere, from National Cell to Village Day, but the economic challenges are structural and cannot be solved overnight. The rhetoric sometimes outpaces reality.”

Opposition parties and civil society organisations have also criticised Mnangagwa’s praise of the Second Republic, arguing that government initiatives have done little to improve healthcare, education, or infrastructure. They claim that hosting regional summits like the upcoming COMESA meeting is being used to distract from the persistent hardships faced by the population.

“The Politburo’s emphasis on loyalty and grassroots mobilisation appears aimed at consolidating political control rather than addressing citizens’ needs,” said a political analyst in Harare. “While the President speaks of transformation, most Zimbabweans feel left behind.”

President Mnangagwa’s call for “collective leadership, unwavering patriotism and loyalty” and insistence that Party programmes be implemented without exception underscores the Party’s continued focus on control and ideological alignment, critics argue, rather than real economic progress.

Related