ZANU PF President and First Secretary, Cde Emmerson Mnangagwa, has reaffirmed the ruling Party’s commitment to people-centred development and national unity, declaring that no amount of external criticism will deter Zimbabwe from pursuing its transformative agenda.
Speaking as the ZANU PF 22nd Annual National People’s Conference roared into life in Mutare, Manicaland Province, the President said the revolutionary party remains resolute in defending national interests while advancing programmes that uplift the lives of ordinary citizens.
The conference proceedings began with a Politburo meeting held in Harare on Tuesday followed by a Central Committee session on Wednesday, before delegates head to Manicaland Province for the main conference events.
Addressing the Politburo, President Mnangagwa urged party leaders to remain disciplined, united, and focused on consolidating the gains of the liberation struggle through continued delivery of development projects.
“The people’s revolution, which is our mass colossal party, ZANU PF, is like a flame whose light is sustained by following the correct line and our ideology, as well as discipline, patriotism, and loyalty.
“As the conference begins, I call on the Politburo to lead by example in uniting the party and the nation. Shame on those who denigrate our national interests and ongoing people-centred programmes, we will not be deterred,” said President Mnangagwa.
President Mnangagwa stressed that the conference must serve as a platform for introspection and unity, where members reaffirm their dedication to serving the people and strengthening the party’s grassroots structures.
“Our focus must be on providing leadership and guidance for consolidating unity and the party’s strength. We must recalibrate all cadres to deepen understanding of the nature and purpose of the party. Every project and programme implemented by our government must serve the majority for shared prosperity,” he emphasised.
Highlighting Zimbabwe’s rising profile on the international stage, the President celebrated the country’s recent diplomatic milestones, including overwhelming support for its bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term, and its assumption of the Vice Chairmanship of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA).
“These developments demonstrate growing confidence in Zimbabwe’s leadership and diplomacy. As we prepare to take over the COMESA Chairmanship in 2026, I call upon the private sector to contribute towards advancing the regional integration agenda,” he said.
The Politburo meeting also took a solemn moment to honour the victims of a tragic Zimbabwe-bound bus accident that occurred in South Africa.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our citizens and others from the region. On behalf of the party and government, we extend heartfelt condolences to all affected families. May the Almighty comfort them during this difficult time,” President Mnangagwa said.
The ZANU PF conference is expected to chart the party’s policy direction for the coming year, reinforcing its vision of building a prosperous, united, and modern Zimbabwe under the guiding philosophy of “leaving no one and no place behind.”
