Musengezi Quits Zanu-PF and Launches SI-G Ahead of 2028 Polls

Sybeth Musengezi has quit Zanu-PF and notified ZEC of a new political party, SI-G, as he transitions from legal activism to electoral politics ahead of the 2028 elections (image source)

Sybeth Musengezi, the Zanu-PF activist who rose to national attention after legally challenging President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s 2017 ascension to the party’s top post, has formally left the ruling party and notified the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) of a new political formation, Suthisa Ilizwe–Gutsaruzhinji (SI-G).

In a letter dated 16 January 2026 and addressed to ZEC chairperson Justice Priscilla Chigumba, Musengezi signed off as “President and Patriot in Command” and requested guidance on procedural steps required under the Electoral Act. He asked to be added to ZEC’s database of political parties so SI-G can receive official communications and invitations to participate in future elections, and offered to submit the party constitution and leadership details as required.

Musengezi’s public profile was shaped by his court challenge to President Mnangagwa’s legitimacy, a case that drew national attention for its constitutional and intra-party implications. The new party’s name, blending isiNdebele and Shona phrases roughly translating to “Fix the country – For the masses,” signals an appeal to broad national concerns and a populist framing aimed at voters disillusioned with established political structures.

In his notification to ZEC, Musengezi emphasised centralised control of party structures, stating that only organs authorised by the national leadership would be recognised. This suggests SI-G will adopt a tightly managed organisational model rather than a loose coalition of local affiliates, a choice likely to influence recruitment, candidate selection and internal discipline as the party seeks to expand.

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Political analysts say the launch of SI-G adds another actor to an already fragmented political landscape ahead of the next harmonised elections expected in 2028. New parties face significant hurdles, including building nationwide structures, meeting ZEC registration requirements, and securing funding and media access. Observers note that SI-G’s prospects will depend on its ability to translate Musengezi’s legal notoriety into grassroots organisation and credible policy platforms.

For Zanu-PF, Musengezi’s departure may represent one of several internal fissures as the party navigates succession dynamics and increased public scrutiny. For Musengezi, the shift from litigant to party founder marks a transition from courtroom challenge to electoral politics, testing his capacity to convert legal arguments into political capital.

ZEC has yet to issue a public response to the notification. As SI-G seeks formal recognition and begins preparing for the long road to 2028, its next steps—including registration, constitution filing and public mobilisation—will determine whether it becomes a lasting political force or another short-lived entrant in Zimbabwe’s crowded party field.