Harare: Zimbabwe’s ‘coup’ President Emmerson Mnangagwa has expressed confidence his ruling Zanu-PF party will resoundingly win the upcoming elections set for July.
Mnangagwa took over from his long ruling predecessor Robert Mugabe in November 2017 following a military coup.
“We, as Zanu PF are confident.
“If anyone of you is not confident, get it from me, we are confident that Zanu-PF will romp to victory hands down,” Mnangagwa said addressing the Zanu-PF Youth League national assembly in the capital.
Mugabe, in power since 1980, however told family members during his 94th birthday celebrations in February that Zanu-PF’s chances of winning this year’s elections were slim.
The former guerrilla leader reportedly now fronts a new political outfit, the National Patriotic Front (NPF), whose members include exiled ministers such as his nephew Patrick Zhuwawo.
Mnangagwa has promised to ensure free, fair and non-violent elections.
Zimbabwe’s polls have since independence in 1980 been marred with reports of violence, vote fraud among other electoral malpractices.
“There is no need (for violence), we are assured of romping home, crossing Jordan to Canaan. The elections will be peaceful, credible, free and fair.
“We must earn the mandate to continue to govern the people of Zimbabwe at the ballot box, where people freely make their choice. Victory is certain! Let us refrain from any form of violence, intimidation, hateful and hurtful speech,” he said.
