Mthwakazi Republic Party Marks 12 Years, Reflects on Struggle and Renewal

The Mthwakazi Republic Party marks 12 years of activism, reflecting on arrests, international advocacy and internal renewal as it continues its push for self-determination in Matabeleland and Midlands (image source)

BULAWAYO — The Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP) marked its 12th anniversary on Thursday, honouring founding cadres and reflecting on years of persecution, arrests and political pressure as it continues to press for self-determination for Matabeleland and Midlands.

In a statement, party president Mqondisi Moyo described 11 January as a day of solemn reverence for pioneers who shaped the movement. He paid tribute to founding figures including Qhubekani Dube, Busani Ngwenya and Elder Leonard Dube, whose death in April 2024 he said was a major loss to the cause.

Launched on 11 January 2014 at the Presbyterian Church Hall in Bulawayo, MRP positions itself as a peaceful, democratic organisation guided by international human rights principles and the right to self-determination. Moyo said the people of Mthwakazi have endured political exclusion, economic neglect and cultural marginalisation, and that independence did not deliver equal democracy for all regions.

Moyo recounted a history of arrests and intimidation, saying he had been detained more than 17 times between 2006 and 2022 while leading peaceful protests and civic actions. He cited the incarceration of the MRP-9, arrests at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair and harassment during public campaigns as examples of sustained pressure on the party.

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On international advocacy, Moyo said the party submitted petitions to United Nations offices in Pretoria in 2022 and 2025, the latter backed by more than 20,000 signatures. He said the MRP has survived internal attempts at infiltration and division and has pursued “revolutionary renewal” through restructuring and leadership refreshment.

New policy orientations outlined by the party include people-centred governance, restorative justice, cultural restoration, economic justice, and inclusion of youth and women. Moyo said the party has strengthened international relations and diplomatic engagement, positioning itself as a credible actor on the global stage.

“As we mark twelve years of struggle, sacrifice and resolve, we reaffirm that Mthwakazi belongs to everyone who shares its cause. No one will be excluded,” he said, urging supporters to continue peaceful advocacy guided by law and the movement’s founding principles.