Search Results

Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart reconnects with retired Archbishop Pius Ncube, praising his courage in exposing Gukurahundi atrocities and speaking out against human rights abuses in Zimbabwe ( image source ) BULAWAYO — Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart has revealed that he recently reconnected with retired Roman Catholic Archbishop Pius Ncube, describing him as one of Zimbabwe’s “true heroes” for his courage in confronting human rights abuses during some of the country’s most turbulent years. Archbishop Ncube, a former head of the Catholic Archdiocese of Bulawayo, rose to national prominence for his outspoken condemnation of the Gukurahundi atrocities of the 1980s. His stance made him a controversial but widely respected figure, particularly in Matabeleland, where he openly challenged state violence at a time when few dared to do so. In a message shared on his Facebook page, Coltart said he was pleased to meet Ncube in Bulawayo over the weekend and reflected on the archbishop’s legacy. “Yesterday I met with an old friend of mine and one of Zimbabwe’s true heroes, retired Catholic Archbishop Pius Ncube,” Coltart wrote. “Archbishop Pius showed astonishing bravery between 1983 and 1985 when, as a parish priest with very little protection, he reported on terrible atrocities being committed by the 5 Brigade in rural Matabeleland.” Ncube was later transferred from Bulawayo to Matabeleland North following an alleged sexual scandal involving a woman named Rosemary, who is now deceased. Many of his supporters believe the incident was a politically motivated sting operation orchestrated under the late former President Robert Mugabe’s administration, aimed at neutralising one of the regime’s most vocal critics. Coltart said Ncube’s moral courage continued after his elevation to Archbishop, noting that he consistently spoke out against political violence and human rights violations from the early 2000s onward. He added that Ncube, who turns 80 next year, remains a personal inspiration. During their meeting, the two discussed a range of contemporary national issues, including proposed changes to Zimbabwe’s abortion laws and the persistent problem of corruption. Coltart concluded his tribute with a personal blessing, writing: “God bless and keep you, Pius.” Archbishop Ncube’s legacy remains complex but deeply significant. To supporters, he is remembered as a fearless church leader who risked his position and personal safety to speak truth to power. The reunion with Coltart underscores enduring relationships forged in the struggle for justice and accountability, and highlights the continued relevance of Ncube’s voice in Zimbabwe’s ongoing debates around governance, morality and reform.

Harare City Council has exposed a former municipal police officer accused of extorting motorists while posing as a parking attendant ( image source ) HARARE — The City of Harare has exposed a former municipal police officer accused of extorting motorists and residents while posing as a parking attendant in the central business district (CBD), warning that he is part of a wider gang operating under false municipal identities. The council identified the suspect as Farai G. Garachani, a former Harare Metropolitan Police patrolman who was dismissed earlier this year for extortion-related misconduct. Despite his dismissal, Garachani allegedly continued operating in the CBD, demanding money from motorists and pedestrians under false pretences. In a statement, the local authority said investigations had revealed the existence of a group of impostors masquerading as municipal police officers and engaging in threats and harassment. The city confirmed that law enforcement agencies have been alerted, with arrests and prosecutions expected as investigations progress. Members of the public who may have been victimised were urged to report incidents to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) and municipal authorities. Council officials reiterated that legitimate municipal police officers must always be in full uniform and properly identify themselves. Residents were advised to be cautious of individuals demanding money outside authorised channels or failing to produce official identification. “All municipal police must adequately identify themselves and must wear uniforms at all times,” the council said. The revelations have raised concerns over public safety and the integrity of municipal services in Harare. City administrators said they are working closely with the ZRP to increase patrols in the CBD, improve visibility of legitimate officers and fast-track prosecutions where evidence supports criminal charges. Community leaders and civic groups welcomed the action but called for sustained enforcement and public awareness campaigns to help residents distinguish between authorised officers and impostors. Legal experts noted that successful prosecutions will depend on timely reporting and clear evidence, urging victims to preserve any information that could assist investigations. The City of Harare said it maintains zero tolerance for impersonation and extortion and appealed to residents to remain vigilant and use official channels when dealing with municipal personnel.

Limpopo authorities have intensified enforcement against overloaded cross-border buses after intercepting several vehicles carrying far more passengers than permitted ( image source ) POLOKWANE — The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety has intensified enforcement against overloaded cross-border buses, warning that overcrowding is becoming increasingly common amid a surge in fatal bus accidents. Provincial authorities say the trend poses a serious threat to road safety, particularly during peak cross-border travel periods. In the early hours of Sunday, traffic officers at the Zebediela Traffic Control Centre (ZTCC) intercepted two cross-border buses and more than 20 other vehicles for serious violations of road safety regulations. The first bus, licensed to carry 63 passengers, was found transporting 72 adults and 10 minors, bringing the total to 82 passengers. It was travelling from Durban to Zimbabwe. The second bus, certified for 70 adult passengers, was carrying 67 adults and 12 minors, a total of 79 passengers, and was en route from Johannesburg to Zimbabwe. Both buses were detained, along with several light delivery and heavy motor vehicles found towing unroadworthy trailers. Limpopo MEC for Transport and Community Safety Violet Mathye praised traffic officers for their vigilance but raised concern that buses are often allowed to travel long distances before being stopped. “It is unacceptable for buses to travel from as far as KwaZulu-Natal only to be stopped in Limpopo. Enforcement must begin at the source through stronger inter-provincial cooperation,” Mathye said. She warned transport operators that violations would not be tolerated, adding that authorities would continue to clamp down on irresponsible drivers and operators. In a separate incident on Wednesday, 17 December 2025, a northbound cross-border bus was intercepted at the Mantsole Traffic Control Centre weighbridge. The vehicle was overloaded on both the front and rear axles, exceeding the legal gross vehicle mass by 5 640 kilogrammes. The bus, travelling from Gauteng to Malawi, was carrying more than 90 passengers, mostly women and children, despite being licensed for only 65 seats. Officials issued an overloading summons and declared the bus unroadworthy. Authorities detained the vehicle at Mantsole until the operator arranged alternative transport for passengers. On 16 December alone, traffic officials screened 62 cross-border buses and issued 26 overloading charges. The department reiterated its call for transport operators to ensure proper load distribution, passenger limits and vehicle roadworthiness before undertaking long-distance journeys, warning that non-compliance will continue to attract strict enforcement. Meta Descriptio .

Opposition leader Nelson Chamisa has renewed calls for national dialogue ( image source ) HARARE — Opposition politician Nelson Chamisa has renewed calls for national dialogue, urging Zimbabweans to “find each other and walk in unity” amid warnings that deepening political and social divisions are undermining the country’s development and cohesion. In a Unity Day statement released on Wednesday, Chamisa said intolerance, hatred and disunity have increasingly come to define Zimbabwe’s politics, institutions, churches and even households, leaving the nation “deeply fractured politically, socially and economically.” His remarks come against the backdrop of an intensely polarised political environment dominated by rivalry between the ruling Zanu PF and a fragmented opposition movement. The opposition landscape has splintered into multiple formations, weakened by internal power struggles, court disputes, recalls of legislators and competing claims to legitimacy. The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), once the country’s most formidable opposition force and formerly led by Chamisa, has been severely destabilised by factionalism and parallel structures, with critics arguing that its parliamentary presence has been significantly diminished. Chamisa said unity must go beyond symbolism and rhetoric, insisting that national recovery can only begin through genuine dialogue and mutual understanding. “Zimbabweans must find each other and walk in unity, celebrating unity in diversity,” he said. “We must build a shared vision that unites all citizens under a common trajectory — the Zimbabwe we desire, the Zimbabwe we want and the Zimbabwe we demand.” He warned that Unity Day celebrations risk ringing hollow while long-standing national grievances remain unresolved. Chamisa cited the legacy of Gukurahundi, disputed elections and persistent political intolerance, violence and internal party conflicts as major obstacles to genuine national healing. He also pointed to widening socio-economic inequalities, rising unemployment, entrenched poverty and continued migration and brain drain as symptoms of a fractured nation. “The negative energy we waste fighting one another could instead be redirected toward productive solutions and meaningful collaboration,” he said, adding that Zimbabweans often fail to recognise their own role in perpetuating divisions. Chamisa accused government leaders of prioritising political survival, personal gain and partisan battles at the expense of national reconciliation and inclusive development. Political analysts have echoed concerns about a shrinking democratic space, pointing to the arrest and detention of opposition figures, activists and critics as signs of growing intolerance. They argue that the use of law enforcement and the justice system to suppress dissent has deepened mistrust and entrenched fear, further weakening prospects for meaningful dialogue. Calling for a sustainable, long-term solution to Zimbabwe’s recurring electoral disputes, Chamisa said credible elections are central to restoring national unity. “Zimbabwe must honour and respect the voice of its citizens by ending contested and discredited national processes,” he said. “Resolving this issue is critical to addressing the country’s deeper challenges.” Meta Description .

Mohamed Salah scored a stoppage-time winner as Egypt came from behind to beat Zimbabwe 2–1 in their opening Africa Cup of Nations match in Morocco ( image source ) MOROCCO — Mohamed Salah struck a dramatic stoppage-time winner as Egypt came from behind to defeat Zimbabwe 2–1 in their opening match of the Africa Cup of Nations finals on Monday, securing a vital early boost to their group campaign. Despite dominating possession and applying sustained pressure, the seven-time African champions were stunned when Zimbabwe took a surprise lead in the 20th minute. Forward Prince Dube capitalised on a rare attacking move, finishing clinically to put the underdogs ahead and silence the Egyptian supporters. Egypt continued to press against a disciplined Zimbabwean defence and eventually found an equaliser in the 64th minute. Omar Marmoush restored parity with a confident finish, relieving mounting pressure as Egypt searched for a breakthrough. As the match appeared destined for a draw, Salah delivered a decisive moment deep into stoppage time. The Egypt captain fired home a precise left-footed strike in the 91st minute, sealing all three points and underlining his importance on his first start after four successive appearances on the bench for Liverpool. The victory gives Egypt a winning start to their tournament, while Zimbabwe were left disappointed after a spirited display that ultimately went unrewarded due to a late lapse in concentration.

ZPCS has confirmed the escape of an inmate from Harare Central Prison after a workshop vehicle was used in the breakout, prompting investigations and a public appeal for information ( image source ) HARARE — The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) has confirmed the escape of a Class B inmate, Jeffrey Jingura, from Harare Central Prison on December 20, 2025, triggering an urgent investigation and a public appeal for information. Jingura, who was serving a sentence for theft, allegedly fled custody after using a motor vehicle he had been repairing at the prison workshop. ZPCS said the incident was immediately reported to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), with joint investigations now under way to establish how the inmate accessed the vehicle and the circumstances that enabled the escape. Authorities are also reviewing internal procedures linked to inmate work programmes at the facility. ZPCS National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commissioner Meya Khanyezi, described the incident as regrettable but rare. She said the service remains committed to maintaining secure correctional facilities while advancing inmate rehabilitation. Khanyezi urged the public to remain vigilant and assist with information that may lead to Jingura’s recapture, warning members of the public not to approach him if sighted. She said information should be reported to the nearest police station or via the ZPCS emergency line on 0242 706501. The escape has reignited concerns over security protocols at correctional institutions, particularly the supervision of prison workshops. While such programmes are designed to equip inmates with vocational skills and support reintegration, the incident has highlighted the need for stricter oversight when inmates are granted access to tools and vehicles. ZPCS said corrective measures will be taken should any lapses be identified. The breakout recalls a separate high-profile escape earlier this year involving inmate Luke Zinyengerere, who fled from custody at the Harare Magistrates Court in March. Zinyengerere was later recaptured and sentenced to 22 years’ imprisonment for escaping from lawful custody and carjacking. Security analysts say that although prison escapes remain infrequent, repeated incidents underline the need for continued investment in correctional infrastructure, staff training and inter-agency coordination. They have called for tighter controls around inmate access to equipment, enhanced perimeter security and regular audits of rehabilitation programmes to balance reform objectives with public safety. ZPCS has assured the public that it is working closely with the ZRP to track leads and resolve the matter, while reinforcing measures aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.

Zimbabwe has laid to rest liberation war hero Retired Major Blessing Matsikenyere, honoured for his role as a military trainer, freedom fighter and community leader in Chimanimani ( image source ) CHIMANIMANI — Zimbabwe has laid to rest Retired Major Blessing Matsikenyere, a decorated liberation war veteran and military trainer, who died on December 16 and was buried at his rural home in Chimanimani. Known during the liberation struggle by his Chimurenga name, Cde Kingsley Ndorumwa, Matsikenyere was honoured by family, comrades and community leaders for his role in the country’s liberation and post-independence nation-building. War veterans who served alongside him recalled his bravery and professionalism. Cde John Netsiyamwa said he trained with Matsikenyere at Nyadzonya before both were selected as military instructors at Mgagao. Following independence, Matsikenyere joined the Zimbabwe National Army, where he served as a trainer and member of the General Staff. Cde Joseph Chinotimba also paid tribute, recalling encounters with Matsikenyere in Mozambique and later at Dzapasi Assembly Point during the integration process. ZANU-PF Central Committee member Patricia Kudhlande described the late veteran as a unifying figure who remained committed to community development long after the war. She said Matsikenyere was involved in rehabilitation projects, including road works, before illness forced him to step back from public life. She added that he withdrew from a parliamentary race due to health challenges and later supported his wife, Nokuthula Matsikenyere, in her political work. “He was a unifier,” Kudhlande said. Family members spoke of a man deeply devoted to service. His daughter, Tendai Matsikenyere, thanked the Government for conferring liberation war hero status on her father. “My father was a proud soldier. He was jovial, caring, loving and very generous,” she said. His widow, Cde Nokuthula Matsikenyere, highlighted his political and community contributions, noting that he actively supported ZANU-PF efforts in Chimanimani and beyond. She said he had been ill since 2010 after suffering a mild stroke linked to diabetes and high blood pressure, which later resulted in renal failure. Mr Munyaradzi Rubaya, Director in the Office of the Minister of State and Provincial Affairs and Devolution, said Matsikenyere’s death was a significant loss to the province and the ruling party. “He fought to liberate the country and was known for helping his community,” Rubaya said. Born on December 15, 1955, Matsikenyere joined the liberation struggle in 1975 after crossing into Mozambique from Mutambara High School. He trained at Zhunda camp, where he met the late former President Robert Mugabe, before being sent to Tanzania for military training under senior commanders including Vice President General (Retired) Dr Constantino Chiwenga and the late Air Chief Marshal (Retired) Perrance Shiri. He later served as a military instructor at Tembwe and inside Zimbabwe, training fellow freedom fighters. Retired Major Blessing Matsikenyere leaves behind a legacy defined by sacrifice, discipline and service, both during the liberation struggle and in independent Zimbabwe.

The upgraded Beitbridge Border Post is improving travel efficiency and boosting tourism, offering festive travellers a smoother, welcoming gateway into Zimbabwe ( image source ) BEITBRIDGE — The upgraded Beitbridge Border Post is transforming the travel experience for those entering Zimbabwe, significantly improving efficiency, traffic flow and first impressions of the country, as festive travellers and tourists stream in during the holiday season. The modernised facility, delivered under the Second Republic’s infrastructure development programme, has already drawn positive feedback from both returning Zimbabweans and international visitors. Travellers passing through the border post on Sunday described a smoother, faster and more welcoming process, attributing the improved experience to enhanced infrastructure and streamlined systems. “When you are out there, people say a lot of things about Zimbabwe, only to realise that people are really enjoying going through this border,” one visitor said. A Zimbabwean returning home for the festive season added: “It is good to be welcomed in your country from abroad. This really means a lot to us as citizens and even our tourists.” The welcoming atmosphere was further enhanced through cultural exchanges, with some visitors receiving symbolic gifts. One tourist who was presented with a national cloth by the Minister of Tourism described the gesture as a highlight of their trip, saying it set a positive tone for their holiday in Zimbabwe. Speaking during her Meet and Greet Programme at the border post, Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Honourable Barbra Rwodzi said the upgraded systems had significantly improved efficiency for travellers. “We are here to use the whole-of-government approach and assist our colleagues to make sure there is efficiency for the crossing public and tourists, making sure we welcome them in the proper way,” she said. “The systems installed here have improved efficiency in a big way. We thank the President, through the relevant ministries, for a job well done. Everything is moving smoothly for travellers, and as the Ministry of Tourism we are happy because we want people to come and enjoy Zimbabwe.” The Beitbridge upgrade forms part of Zimbabwe’s broader engagement and re-engagement drive, aimed at repositioning the country as an attractive, accessible and welcoming destination. These efforts have gained international recognition, with Forbes Magazine recently naming Zimbabwe as the best country to visit in 2025. Analysts say the modernisation of the country’s busiest port of entry goes beyond logistical improvements, serving as a symbolic gateway that reflects Zimbabwe’s commitment to efficiency, hospitality and economic growth. Improved border management is expected to boost tourism arrivals, support trade and enhance the country’s international image as festive travel peaks.

FIFA has imposed a transfer ban on Ngezi Platinum Stars over unpaid compensation to former coach Bongani Mafu ( image source ) HARARE — FIFA has imposed a transfer ban on Ngezi Platinum Stars, barring the club from registering new players until it settles nearly US$200,000 owed to former head coach Bongani Mafu. The sanction, confirmed in a letter dated December 17 by FIFA’s Head of Disciplinary, Americo Espallargas, will remain in force for up to three consecutive registration periods unless the outstanding amount is paid in full. The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has been instructed to enforce the ruling at domestic level, effectively preventing Ngezi from signing players when the January transfer window opens. The ban follows a FIFA ruling issued in August 2024, which found that Ngezi breached Mafu’s contract without just cause. The club was ordered to pay US$196,750 in compensation, plus five percent annual interest accruing from 2022. That decision was upheld by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in November 2025, with the 45-day compliance window expiring earlier this month. The Mafu case compounds Ngezi’s growing financial troubles. In a separate matter, former coach Benjani Mwaruwari was awarded about US$570,000 by FIFA for unfair dismissal, together with interest dating back to 2022. While Ngezi has appealed that ruling to CAS, the club’s total potential liabilities now approach US$800,000 before interest. Both Mafu and Mwaruwari were dismissed in July 2022 after spending just three months in charge, a pattern analysts say raises serious questions about governance and contract management at the club. The financial strain comes at a critical time, with Ngezi having already lost head coach Takesure Chiragwi and seven players to rivals CAPS United. With the transfer ban in effect, Ngezi faces a challenging season ahead and an increased risk of relegation if reinforcements cannot be secured. Observers say the case reflects deeper structural problems within Zimbabwean football, where poor contract administration and financial mismanagement have increasingly resulted in FIFA sanctions and international legal disputes.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reaffirmed national unity and cohesion as Zimbabwe marked the 38th anniversary of the Unity Accord, highlighting peace, development and reconciliation ( image source ) HARARE — Zimbabwe on December 22 marked the 38th anniversary of the Unity Accord, with President Emmerson Mnangagwa reaffirming that no effort to divide the nation will succeed. The historic agreement, signed in 1987 by founding leaders Robert Gabriel Mugabe and Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo, remains a cornerstone of national peace, unity and social cohesion. In his Unity Day message, President Mnangagwa described the accord as a “critical building block towards durable peace, progress and development,” saying Zimbabweans continue to work together as “one indivisible nation” in pursuit of a prosperous, upper-middle-income society. He said national unity has remained resilient despite economic pressures and sanctions. “Unity and love for our country have seen the illegal sanctions failing to break or divide us as a people. No amount of pressure, falsehoods and vilification will derail our people-centred development trajectory,” Mnangagwa said. The President highlighted progress recorded under the National Development Strategy One (NDS1), which concludes this year, citing record agricultural output in maize, wheat, cotton and tobacco. He said the forthcoming NDS2 will prioritise industrialisation, value addition and inclusive growth, aimed at accelerating economic transformation, job creation and improved living standards. Mnangagwa also emphasised the importance of safeguarding independence, unity and peace, pointing to the ongoing Gukurahundi National Outreach Programme, led by traditional leaders, as part of efforts to promote national healing and reconciliation. In his closing remarks, the President underscored Zimbabwe’s diversity as a source of strength rather than division. “Zimbabwe is a unitary state, a land with many cultures, languages and tribes that make us a uniquely diverse society united under one flag and one national anthem. No culture, language or tribe is superior to any other. Differences must be resolved through dialogue. No attempt to divide us will ever succeed,” he said. The Unity Day commemorations served as a reminder of the enduring relevance of the Unity Accord and its central role in shaping Zimbabwe’s national identity and shared future.

Geo Pomona Waste Management is in Belgium engaging Ecosteryl Environmental Solutions to explore global partnerships aimed at improving medical waste management and environmental sustainability in Zimbabwe ( image source ) BRUSSELS — A delegation from Geo Pomona Waste Management is in Belgium on a working visit aimed at strengthening international partnerships and adopting global best practices in sustainable waste management. The delegation is led by Geo Pomona Chief Executive Officer and Executive Chairman, Dr Dilesh Nguwaya, and is accompanied by Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Belgium, Mrs Angelica Katuruza. The visit centres on engagements with Ecosteryl Environmental Solutions in Mons, Belgium, a company internationally recognised for its advanced medical waste treatment technologies. Following high-level discussions, executives from both organisations resolved to pursue strategic collaboration focused on improving medical and hazardous waste management in Zimbabwe. Dr Nguwaya said the partnership would play a critical role in enhancing environmental protection and public health outcomes. “This plant will help the Government of Zimbabwe and the people of Zimbabwe to treat their medical waste. It is very important to have this type of machine so that everyone can live in a good environment. This technology is internationally recognised,” he said. Ecosteryl President Mr Olivier Dufrasne welcomed the Zimbabwean delegation, describing Geo Pomona as “the best and number one company in Zimbabwe for the treatment of waste.” He expressed optimism about the collaboration, saying it holds “a bright future to offer to the community of Zimbabwe.” As part of the programme, the delegation toured Ecosteryl’s equipment assembly facility, where they were briefed on environmentally friendly waste treatment systems designed to safely process medical and hazardous waste. The team also paid a courtesy call on the Mayor of Mons, Nicolas Martin, a move seen as strengthening institutional ties and reinforcing Zimbabwe’s intention to align with European Union standards in environmental governance. The Belgium visit forms part of Geo Pomona’s broader strategy to benchmark against international standards and introduce modern, sustainable waste management solutions. Analysts say such partnerships could significantly strengthen Zimbabwe’s capacity to manage medical waste, reduce environmental pollution and improve public health infrastructure.

Zanu-PF has reclaimed the Nkulumane parliamentary seat in a surprise by-election victory ( image source ) BULAWAYO — In a dramatic political turnaround, Zanu-PF has reclaimed the Nkulumane Constituency parliamentary seat, ending more than two decades of opposition dominance dating back to the early 2000s. The ruling party’s candidate, Freedom Murechu, emerged victorious in Saturday’s by-election, filling the vacancy left by the death of sitting legislator Desire Moyo. Official results released by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) Elections Officer, Mrs Sithembiso Khuphe, confirmed Murechu’s decisive win. He secured 3,416 votes, comfortably outpacing eight other candidates and underscoring a notable shift in voter sentiment within the constituency. Independent candidate Rodney Jele finished second with 745 votes, while Esther Excellia Zitha, widow of the late Desire Moyo, came third with 325 votes. She narrowly edged out Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) candidate Mothusi Ndlovu, popularly known as Madlela Skhobokobo, who polled 320 votes. Other contenders trailed further behind, with independent Mbuso Fuzwayo receiving 121 votes, Vivian Siziba of ZAPU securing 110, Alson Moyo of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) garnering 65, Ethel Sibanda of MDC-T managing 23, and Nompilo Ncube Malaba of the Zimbabwe African National Congress (ZANC) finishing last with 18 votes. The outcome represents a major breakthrough for Zanu-PF in urban Bulawayo, long regarded as an opposition stronghold. Analysts say the result signals a significant political realignment in Nkulumane, reflecting voter fatigue with opposition parties and renewed confidence among some residents in the ruling party’s promises of improved urban service delivery. Zanu-PF officials have framed the victory as proof of growing support in metropolitan areas, arguing that the party’s rural development experience can be translated into solutions for urban infrastructure, sanitation and housing challenges. For opposition parties, the loss is a sobering setback. Nkulumane, once emblematic of opposition strength, now illustrates shifting political dynamics in Zimbabwe’s second-largest city. Analysts point to fragmentation, weakened grassroots structures and prolonged economic hardship as factors eroding opposition mobilisation capacity. The cumulative effect, analysts argue, has been the effective neutralisation of the CCC, with some of its remaining structures described as a “loyal opposition” operating under sustained pressure. Public trust has diminished after years of mobilisation without tangible political gains, while economic stress has increased the susceptibility of opposition figures to co-option. Although Nelson Chamisa has hinted at launching a new citizen-focused political movement, the absence of concrete action has fuelled scepticism. Despite opposition weakness, civil society organisations continue to criticise Zanu-PF’s governance record, citing concerns over accountability, service delivery and democratic space. The ruling party itself faces internal tensions, including succession debates and factional competition ahead of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s second-term expiry in 2028. Proposals to amend the constitution to extend his tenure have further divided opinion within the party. Nevertheless, analysts say Zanu-PF’s political dominance remains largely intact, a reality sharply underscored by the Nkulumane by-election result.