The Assemblies of Minorities, a new political party in Zimbabwe, opposes President Mnangagwa’s alleged efforts to extend his presidency past 2028. Led by Chilumbo Mudenda, the party seeks to defend democratic principles and advocate for marginalized communities in Matabeleland and the Midlands. It aims to mobilize support against constitutional amendments and emphasizes organized demonstrations to safeguard democracy.
The newly established political party in Zimbabwe, the Assemblies of Minorities (AM), has declared its firm opposition to President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s alleged plans to extend his presidency beyond 2028. The party represents marginalized communities primarily in Matabeleland and parts of the Midlands, and it intends to resist the proposed constitutional amendments by Zanu-PF that could prolong Mnangagwa’s rule.
During a press conference at the Bulawayo Media Centre, interim leader Chilumbo Mudenda vehemently denounced what he referred to as an unconstitutional strategy intended to extend Mnangagwa’s term. He asserted, “We are hearing that Zanu-PF is pushing the 2030 agenda that is bent on extending Mnangagwa’s term of office beyond 2028. We would like to put it categorically clear that there is nothing like that is going to happen. It is unconstitutional and a direct assault on democracy,” reinforcing his belief that elections will occur in 2028 without Mnangagwa’s candidacy.
Mudenda also criticized Zanu-PF for allegedly manipulating opposition parties to achieve its 2030 agenda. He pointed out the unequal distribution of development projects, which have historically overlooked Matabeleland and parts of the Midlands. “We have been patient enough with their excuses, but there is always a time at some point where you say, ‘this is enough,’ and right now, people of Matabeleland and parts of Midlands, we have crossed that line,” he said, emphasizing the need for equitable development.
AM has commenced mobilizing its supporters to resist any bid to extend Mnangagwa’s presidency. Mudenda stated, “We are saying we are very bold enough to stand. That’s why we pointed out, we can’t allow Emmerson Mnangagwa to go beyond 2030.” He mentioned an active recruitment drive to prepare for potential clashes during parliamentary sessions on this matter, while expressing caution regarding any planned protests.
He offered constructive criticism regarding the opposition’s tactics, particularly their reliance on social media to galvanize support. Mudenda advocated for well-structured and organized demonstrations, stressing, “When we do demonstrations, we know the channel. We go to the police.” He also reflected on the dangers of uncoordinated protests, citing the tragic events of the August 1, 2018, post-election demonstrations.
The vision of AM is to create a prosperous and socialist Mthwakazi State, founded on the principles of African unity and solidarity. Mudenda remarked on the significance of this new political entity, asserting its aim to advocate for historically marginalized populations. “We thrive on mass, unite marginalised populations, and build a strong grassroots movement to survive the country’s political terrain,” he concluded, indicating AM’s potential to intensify political discourse in Zimbabwe.
The Assemblies of Minorities has formally entered the political arena in Zimbabwe, vehemently opposing President Mnangagwa’s perceived agenda to extend his rule beyond 2028. Led by Chilumbo Mudenda, the party seeks to represent the interests of marginalized communities while advocating for equitable development. With its call for organized resistance against constitutional changes, AM exemplifies a growing opposition to Zanu-PF’s initiatives, aiming to reshape the political landscape in Zimbabwe’s forthcoming elections.
Original Source: bulawayo24.com
