Record rally attendance

…as over 100 000 people attend ZANU PF rally in Mash Central Province

Political Reporter

A record 100,000 people attended a ZANU PF rally in Mashonaland Central Province on yesterday, in what was seen as a sign of the Party's growing popularity ahead of the 23 August 2023, Harmonised General elections.

The rally, which was held in Centenary, was addressed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who urged the people of Mashonaland Central Province to vote for ZANU PF in the upcoming elections.

In his address, the President emphasized the importance of peace and political tolerance, saying that ZANU PF was a peaceful Party that respects the rule of law.

President Mnangagwa said that observers from over 70 countries are in the country to observe the elections, and that some of them are anticipating violence.

"We will disappoint them. We will show them that Zimbabwe is a peaceful country where people can vote freely and without fear,” said President Mnangagwa.

President Mnangagwa also acknowledged the contribution of Mashonaland Central Province to the liberation struggle. He said that the second phase of the Second Chimurenga started at Altena Farm in 1972, and that this marked the road to independence.

"The people of Mashonaland Central played a key role in the liberation struggle. They are a proud people with a rich history. I am confident that they will continue to support ZANU PF in the upcoming elections,” said the President.

The President urged the people of Mashonaland Central not to be fooled by fly by night politicians who are motivated by money and selling out. He said that ZANU PF was the Party of the people, and that it is the only Party that can guarantee a better future for Zimbabwe.

“Vote for ZANU PF in the upcoming elections. We will not let you down,” added President Mnangagwa.

The rally in Mashonaland Central is the second in two weeks that has seen a record attendance. Last week, a ZANU PF rally in Masvingo Province drew a crowd of over 124,000 people.

Meanwhile, political analyst Itai Chareka said that the growing popularity of ZANU PF was a sign that the Party was confident of victory in the 2023 elections.

The Party is currently in the midst of a nationwide campaign, and it is expected to hold more rallies in the coming weeks.