Makandiwa Urges Mnangagwa to Pardon Exiled G-40 Kingpins, Calls for Return of Zimbabweans
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- Makandiwa Urges Mnangagwa to Pardon Exiled G-40 Kingpins, Calls for Return of Zimbabweans
HARARE – emmanuel Makandiwa, teh leader of the United Families International Church (UFIC), has entered Zimbabwe’s political arena by publicly appealing to President Emmerson Mnangagwa to pardon key figures of the G-40 faction. Thes individuals were ousted during the November 2017 coup. Speaking during a recent sermon at his Chitungwiza basilica, makandiwa suggested that allowing these exiled individuals to return would be a “blessing” for the nation. His appeal has sparked considerable debate, especially given his longstanding ties to ZANU PF and his previous endorsements of Mnangagwa.
The G-40 faction included prominent figures such as former cabinet ministers Saviour Kasukuwere, Walter Mzembi, jonathan Moyo, Patrick Zhuwao, and Mandiitawepi Chimene.They found themselves on the losing side of a power struggle that culminated in the removal of Robert Mugabe. Many of these individuals remain in self-imposed exile, fearing potential persecution from the current management.
The 2017 Coup and Its Aftermath
The events of November 2017, often referred to as “Operation Restore Legacy,” saw the military, under the leadership of then-Vice President Mnangagwa and General constantino Chiwenga, seize control and effectively end Mugabe’s 37-year rule. The operation was publicly framed as an effort to remove “criminals” surrounding mugabe, a clear reference to the G-40 faction, which was perceived as a threat to Mnangagwa’s succession. This faction was closely aligned with former First Lady Grace Mugabe.
During the coup, tanks rolled into Harare, Mugabe was placed under house arrest, and key G-40 figures either went into hiding or fled the country to avoid arrest and potential prosecution. Since assuming power, the Mnangagwa administration has pursued G-40 members, accusing them of corruption and political subversion.
Those who remained in Zimbabwe, such as Ignatius Chombo, faced arrest, while those in exile, including Moyo and Kasukuwere, have become vocal critics of Mnangagwa’s government, using various platforms to voice their opposition.
Makandiwa’s Plea for Reconciliation
During his sermon in Chitungwiza, Makandiwa argued that the remaining G-40 members should be permitted to return to Zimbabwe, asserting that they no longer wield significant power and thus pose no threat to the current government. He specifically highlighted Walter Mzembi, a former cabinet minister, as an example of someone who is “harmless” and “pure.”
I have so much respect for Walter Mzembi. It is unfortunate that they are in a foreign land as we speak. You look at Walter Mzembi—he is harmless. He is pure.
Makandiwa further elaborated on his appeal,suggesting that allowing the exiled G-40 members to return would be a positive step for the nation.
If they can allow them back into their country, it will be a blessing for your nation. There is nothing wrong with that. No one is powerful besides the power that you give them.
Notably, Walter Mzembi was a regular attendee of Makandiwa’s church before his exile, leading to speculation that Makandiwa’s appeal might potentially be motivated, at least in part, by a desire to assist a former prominent member of his congregation.
Makandiwa’s Claims and Endorsements
In addition to his call for pardons, Makandiwa also claimed that he had previously forewarned Mugabe of his impending removal from power and Mnangagwa’s subsequent rise to the presidency. He also used the sermon to encourage Zimbabweans who have emigrated due to economic hardship to return home, emphasizing the potential for prosperity within the country.
Zimbabwe is full of blessings. Bring your children who are in the diaspora.They are blessings that have left.
Makandiwa’s influence in Zimbabwe is considerable. As one of the country’s most prominent religious leaders, he has cultivated close ties to ZANU PF, the ruling party. This proximity to power has reportedly benefited him economically,with his business ventures receiving state backing. In 2023, he publicly endorsed President Mnangagwa during a church service, praising his administration’s infrastructure growth efforts.
Reactions and Implications
Makandiwa’s recent comments have sparked widespread debate and speculation. Critics suggest that his intervention might potentially be part of a broader strategy to rehabilitate the image of exiled G-40 figures or to further solidify his alignment with the ruling elite. Others view it as a genuine call for national reconciliation and healing.
The potential implications of Mnangagwa heeding Makandiwa’s call remain to be seen. A pardon for G-40 members could potentially ease political tensions and foster a more inclusive environment. However, it could also be viewed as a sign of weakness by some and could potentially destabilize the existing power dynamics within ZANU PF.
Ultimately, the decision rests with President Mnangagwa, and his response will likely have significant ramifications for Zimbabwe’s political future.
Makandiwa’s Plea: A Pivotal Moment for Zimbabwean Reconciliation?
Will President Mnangagwa’s decision on granting amnesty to exiled G-40 figures reshape Zimbabwe’s political landscape and pave the way for lasting peace, or will it deepen existing divisions?
Interviewer (Senior Editor, world-today-news.com): Professor Ndlovu,welcome. Yoru extensive work on Zimbabwean post-colonial politics provides invaluable context to this complex situation. Emmanuel Makandiwa’s public appeal for the pardon of exiled G-40 figures has sparked intense debate. Can you unpack the meaning of this intervention, considering the intricate political dynamics at play?
Professor Ndlovu: Thank you for having me. Makandiwa’s call to pardon key members of the G-40 faction, including figures like Saviour Kasukuwere and jonathan Moyo, transcends a simple religious plea. It highlights the deeply intertwined relationship between religion, politics, and power in Zimbabwe. His appeal reflects not only personal relationships and political calculations but also broader societal aspirations for reconciliation and healing after the turbulent events of 2017. Understanding its significance requires examining the ancient context, the motivations of all involved parties, and the potential consequences for Zimbabwe’s future.
The G-40’s Rise and Fall: A Contextual Overview
Interviewer: The G-40 faction played a crucial role in the lead-up to the 2017 power shift. Can you briefly outline their influence and the circumstances that led to their exile?
Professor Ndlovu: The G-40, a faction within ZANU-PF, amassed considerable power during Robert Mugabe’s later years, largely due to its close alignment with the former First Lady, Grace Mugabe. Their influence stemmed from strategic positions within government and the party, enabling them to shape policy and appointments. However, their ambitions, perceived as a threat to Emmerson Mnangagwa’s succession, ultimately triggered the events of November 2017 – a complex power transition often described as a coup d’état or a swift change in leadership. Following the power shift, many G-40 members fled the country fearing prosecution for alleged corruption and political subversion. This self-imposed exile represents a critical turning point in Zimbabwean politics, fostering lasting tensions surrounding justice, accountability, and national unity. The exile of these prominent figures fundamentally altered the country’s political landscape, leaving a lasting impact that continues to influence its trajectory.
Makandiwa’s Motives: A Multifaceted analysis
Interviewer: Makandiwa’s close ties to ZANU-PF are widely known. How might this influence the interpretation of his appeal? Could it be purely altruistic, a strategic political move, or a combination of both?
Professor Ndlovu: Makandiwa’s close relationship with the ruling party is a crucial factor in analyzing his appeal. His past endorsements of President Mnangagwa, coupled with the perceived economic benefits he has derived from his proximity to power, inevitably raise questions about his motivations. While a genuine desire for national reconciliation may exist alongside othre factors, some might interpret his intervention as a strategic political maneuver. This could possibly aim at bolstering his own position, strengthening his rapport with the ruling party, or even rehabilitating the image of the exiled G-40 members. It’s also possible that he seeks to position himself as a mediator, using his religious authority to influence political outcomes and further strengthen his political standing. his influence makes any interpretation of his words inherently complex.
The Strategic Highlighting of Walter Mzembi: A Case Study
Interviewer: Makandiwa specifically highlighted Walter Mzembi as “harmless” and “pure.” What is the significance of this selective emphasis among the exiled G-40 members?
Professor Ndlovu: By focusing on Mzembi, Makandiwa likely employs a strategic approach, acknowledging that a blanket pardon for all G-40 members might be politically untenable. Mzembi, a former minister known for his relatively moderate stance compared to other G-40 figures, presents a more palatable case for pardon. Further, highlighting his previous association with Makandiwa’s church adds a personal narrative, making the request for clemency more relatable to sections of the population who might be wary of a complete amnesty. This tactical approach may serve as an entry point to gain broader acceptance for pardoning the more contentious figures down the line.
Potential Ramifications and Future Scenarios
Interviewer: What are the potential consequences of Mnangagwa acting on Makandiwa’s suggestion? How might his decision impact Zimbabwe’s political stability?
Professor Ndlovu: Mnangagwa’s response carries tremendous weight. Pardoning the exiled G-40 could promote national healing, foster a more inclusive political habitat, and potentially attract investment by signaling a willingness to embrace reconciliation. However, it also entails substantial risks.Internally, it could face intense resistance within ZANU-PF from factions that would perceive this as rewarding past transgressions, potentially undermining the party’s legitimacy and triggering further internal power struggles. Internationally, it would undoubtedly be closely scrutinized, impacting Zimbabwe’s standing on the global stage.The decision could substantially influence Zimbabwe’s political direction well into the future.
Interviewer: Professor Ndlovu, thank you for providing such valuable insights into this critical juncture in Zimbabwean politics. Your analysis offers a balanced and highly informed outlook.
Call to Action: What are your thoughts on Makandiwa’s appeal and its potential implications for Zimbabwe’s future? share your insights and predictions in the comments below,and join the conversation on social media using #ZimbabwePolitics #G40 #Makandiwa #NationalReconciliation #ZimbabweanPolitics.