As Zimbabwe enters 2025, the opposition Congress for Transformation (CFT) has issued a scathing critique of Zanu-PF’s governance, accusing the ruling party of corruption, mismanagement and the perpetuation of hardships that have left Zimbabweans impoverished and despondent.
In his New Year’s message, CFT leader, Masonganyoka Godknows Sibanda highlighted the challenges of 2024 and urged Zimbabweans to unite in the fight for accountability, justice and a brighter future.
“As we usher in 2025, Congress for Transformation (CFT) extends its warmest wishes to all Zimbabweans and Africa for a prosperous and peaceful year ahead,” said Sibanda.
“We acknowledge the challenges and sacrifices of 2024 and remain committed to building a brighter future for all.”
Reflecting on the past year, Sibanda lauded citizens’ resilience but underscored the systemic challenges exacerbated by Zanu PF’s misrule.
“This past year, considerable strides were made in conscientizing citizens across the country on the need for commitment in defending our shared values and rights. However, the year also underscored the grave challenges our people face under Zanu PF’s misrule,” he said.
The CFT leader lambasted the government’s failure to address corruption, citing high-profile cases involving Ministers July Moyo and Frederick Shava.
“These ministers were found guilty of unlawfully misappropriating US$1.7 million from public funds. Despite a court ruling to repay the money, they remain in office, shielded by President Mnangagwa,” he said.
Sibanda referenced a report by Justice Loice Matanda-Moyo, Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) estimating annual corruption losses at US$1.8 billion, claiming this was a “conservative figure as the true figure is likely closer to US$ 3 billion.”
“Instead of tackling these grave issues, Mnangagwa and his allies focus on extending his tenure to 2030, prioritising personal gain over national progress, in the process, violating the constitution of the country,” the CFT leader added.
“There has never been any concerted effort by the government in combating corruption. We continued in 2024 witnessing the now trendy arrest to release gimmicks by the state in efforts to pull wool over the public eyes.”
He also condemned the government’s renewed campaign of demolitions, which have left many citizens homeless and destitute.”
“The inhumane demolitions of homes destroyed livelihoods and left countless citizens homeless and destitute. This while government and local authorities abrogated responsibility and were seized with blame apportionment. This assault on dignity contradicts our constitutional national objectives of shelter, peace, and stability,” Sibanda said.
Sibanda accused Zanu PF of spreading misinformation about sanctions to deflect blame for the country’s economic woes.
“Zanu PF continues to mislead citizens, blaming sanctions for Zimbabwe’s hardships. In reality, sanctions target a select few individuals and entities involved in human rights violations. The true issue is systemic corruption and mismanagement, exemplified by prolonged power cuts of up to 18 hours a day, which cost the economy an estimated US$80 million monthly crippling businesses and industries,” he said.
The introduction of new taxes, including those on gambling winnings, was another point of Sibanda’s contention.
“The government’s introduction of new taxes, including on gambling winnings, reflects its desperation to exploit already overburdened citizens. Compoundingly, the government has not been able to responsibly allocate the proceeds from taxation to development. Instead, state coffers are looted by the ruling elite, plunging an already desperate population into deep poverty.” he said.
Sibanda urged Zimbabweans to unite against oppression, emphasising the importance of reclaiming the ideals of the liberation struggle.
“Our shared struggle is rooted in the ideals of equality, freedom, dignity, and justice – values for which our liberation heroes fought so gallantly. We must not allow our hard-won independence to be perpetually hijacked by those who seek to enrich themselves at the expense of the people,” he said.
As the new year begins, CFT is pledging to amplify the voices of the oppressed, hold the government accountable and foster a mass movement for change.
“In 2025, CFT pledges to continue amplifying the voices of the oppressed, holding the government accountable, and fostering a mass movement for change. Let us work together to create a Zimbabwe that honors the legacy of our struggle stalwarts – a Zimbabwe of hope, prosperity, and justice,” Sibanda said.