Political Reporter
The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) has predicted that the ruling party, ZANU PF, appears well positioned to retain power in the upcoming elections due to its incumbency advantage.
The opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), on the other hand, is facing significant internal struggles, especially with regard to candidate selection and the ensuing nomination court processes.
ISS reports that the CCC's political messaging was unclear and fragmented.
According to the ISS, CCC also lacks an election manifesto that articulates a clear vision and policy direction, which are crucial for citizens to make an informed decision based on proposed ideas.
Moreover, the Institute notes that the CCC's campaign seems to be geared more towards appealing to party loyalties and identity politics, rather than focusing on substantial policies and ideas.
This lack of coherent messaging, ISS observed, leaves the CCC struggling to present itself as a viable alternative to ZANU PF.
Adding credence to their insights, ISS refers to the latest findings from both the Afrobarometer survey and Fitch report.
These reputable sources suggest a probable victory for ZANU PF and President Mnangagwa in the forthcoming elections.
The Afrobarometer survey indicates a drop in potential votes for CCC, declining from 33 percent in 2022 to 27 percent this year.
The Fitch report, as interpreted by ISS, suggests that a potential ZANU PF electoral win would also be due to the success of the Government's agriculture schemes, which have found favour with the voting public.
Additionally, the Institute highlighted the efficacy of ZANU PF's campaign message, embodied in the slogan, "Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo", which instils a sense of personal responsibility for the country's development.
According to ISS, this slogan was designed to counter the opposition's narrative of seeking western help to rebuild Zimbabwe's economy.
Despite these findings, ISS points out that CCC has not yet developed a cohesive message that sets it up as a viable alternative to ZANU PF, apart from emphasizing the ruling party's perceived failings.
Furthermore, with only a few weeks left to elections, ISS notes that it would be challenging for CCC to ensure the presence of competent party agents at all of the country's 11,500 polling stations.
Meanwhile, while ZANU PF appears well-positioned for the upcoming elections, the opposition CCC is grappling with a host of issues, including a lack of clear messaging and logistical challenges.
These factors, coupled with ZANU PF's strong incumbency advantage, could make the road to victory an uphill battle for the opposition in the imminent elections.
As Zimbabweans prepare to cast their votes, these insights provide a revealing snapshot of the current political landscape.
