As the ZANU PF conference unfolds in Bulawayo Province, the party’s crucial role in both domestic and regional politics takes center stage. For years, ZANU PF has collaborated with sister revolutionary parties across Southern Africa on significant matters of mutual interest. Revolutionary movements like South Africa’s ANC, Mozambique’s FRELIMO, and Namibia’s SWAPO have actively sought to strengthen ties with ZANU PF, recognizing its successful strategies, including its resounding victory in the 2023 harmonized elections.
The ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) has also joined this trend of collaboration, reflecting the growing influence of dominant political parties within the SADC region. However, this regional solidarity has drawn criticism from Western-aligned figures like Job Sikhala and journalist Hopewell Chin’ono, whose anti-ZANU PF agendas contrast sharply with the party’s efforts to unite the region, especially during this Anti-Sanctions Month.
Contrary to Sikhala’s and Chin’ono’s claims of ZANU PF meddling in other nations’ affairs, these collaborations highlight the deep, long-standing bonds between revolutionary parties in the region. These parties share a common history and a commitment to assisting one another in pursuit of regional progress. Their relationships are grounded in shared struggles for liberation and a collective goal of bettering the lives of their people.
Regional parties have frequently expressed admiration for ZANU PF’s political strategies. As ANC First Deputy Secretary General Nomvula Mokonyane noted in May 2024, “We must also learn from how ZANU PF has been able to renew itself and even reclaim constituencies that in the past they have not. Same with us, we have to reclaim and prepare a takeover of the lost metros in South Africa.” ZANU PF’s influence extends beyond Zimbabwe’s borders, offering support and technical expertise to its allies when needed. ZANU PF Secretary-General Dr. Obert Mpofu remarked, “We have been in touch with the South African ruling party… I cannot rule out the fact that we can go and assist if they need assistance from us.”
This spirit of brotherhood extends to Mozambique, where FRELIMO Acting Secretary General and Presidential candidate Cde Daniel Francisco Chapo emphasized the long-standing cooperation between the two parties, stating, “We will need technical support, in terms of mobilization, and ZANU PF will also be present in Mozambique.” Similarly, SWAPO Secretary General Cde Sophia Shaningwa acknowledged ZANU PF’s expertise, saying, “We are now heading for the November elections; ZANU PF is of course a team to be reckoned with. They have the expertise and knowledge.”
As ZANU PF delegates gather for the conference, the party has much to celebrate. Its enduring influence across the region and its continued efforts to resist Western imperialism alongside sister revolutionary parties stand out as major achievements. While detractors may criticize, they cannot disrupt ZANU PF’s regional relationships and solidarity. The party’s role in shaping regional politics remains firm, and its legacy continues to grow. Long live ZANU PF!
