In a shocking turn of events, Nelson Chamisa, the opposition leader, has come out swinging against President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s alleged plan to secure a third term by bribing legislators with housing stands. Because who needs democratic principles when you can just buy them off, right?
Chamisa claims that Zanu PF is attempting to buy support for Mnangagwa’s continued rule despite constitutional limits restricting presidents to two five-year terms. He wasn’t too pleased about the US$40,000 loans some CCC legislators accepted in 2022, calling it a “poisoned chalice” and stating that “they have joined the pioneer column, they have joined the gravy train and they have crossed the line”. Now, it seems like more goodies are being thrown their way in the form of housing stands.
Local Government minister Daniel Garwe denies any wrongdoing, saying the housing stands are part of a long-standing provision for non-monetary benefits. However, sources within Parliament suggest that Mnangagwa’s camp is using threats and intimidation tactics against MPs who might support an impeachment motion. An anonymous MP revealed that some legislators have received unspecified threats if they support the impeachment, hinting at a “carrot and stick approach”.
The CCC is divided over the allocation of residential stands, with some members questioning the transparency and fairness of the process. Promise Mkwananzi, a CCC member, warned that any MP who supports moves to bend the constitution and extend Mnangagwa’s term of office will be named, shamed, and blacklisted for life. That’s quite a stern warning.
As the drama unfolds, Zimbabweans will be watching closely to see if Mnangagwa’s plan will come to fruition. One thing’s for sure – the stakes are high, and the politicians are getting creative. Will Mnangagwa succeed in his alleged bid for a third term, or will the opposition manage to block his plans? Only time will tell.
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