Harare Mayor Mafume Stirs Debate with Praise for Mnangagwa

Harare mayor Jacob Mafume’s recent remarks about President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration have ignited discussions across political circles and among citizens.

Speaking at the Zimbabwe Local Government Association Annual Indaba in Harare, Mafume, a Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) councillor, lauded Mnangagwa for enhancing service delivery in the capital.

This unexpected acknowledgment has left many questioning Mafume’s intentions, given the opposition’s persistent accusations of government interference in municipal governance.

Mafume specifically praised Mnangagwa’s leadership, asserting that it had helped Harare make strides toward becoming a world-class city, a vision outlined for 2025.

He cited the controversial Geo Pomona waste management project as an example of progress, admitting he was initially wrong in opposing it but now sees its benefits.

The project, which faced criticism from opposition leaders and civic groups, has since been described by Mafume as pivotal in addressing Harare’s waste management challenges.

Mafume’s statement, “We must all be thankful for the guidance received from the President,” has raised eyebrows among political analysts and citizens alike.

He further elaborated that initiatives such as the Mbudzi roundabout, the new Parliament Building in Mt Hampden, and upgraded roads reflect Mnangagwa’s commitment to Harare’s transformation.

Critics, however, view Mafume’s remarks as a departure from the CCC’s traditional stance, sparking debates about the state of opposition politics in Zimbabwe.

Observers argue that Mafume’s tone signals a shift in political dynamics, with some interpreting his comments as aligning with the ruling Zanu PF’s vision.

Over 2,000 councillors attended the Indaba, which highlighted local governance issues and sought collaboration across political divides for improved service delivery.

Mafume defended Harare’s progress under his leadership, dismissing criticism that the city has failed to meet its 2025 world-class city target.

He remarked, “If someone who died years ago returned today, they’d see a transformed Harare, with a world-class airport, modern infrastructure, and significant improvements.”

The mayor called for councils to complement government efforts by addressing essential services such as waste collection and management, which remain critical for the city.

Mafume’s election as mayor for a second term followed the recall of former mayor Ian Makone, a move that further divided the CCC.

Some CCC leaders opposed Mafume’s appointment, intensifying internal disagreements within the opposition party, which has faced growing challenges in recent months.

The mayor’s remarks, coming amid a politically charged atmosphere, have added a layer of complexity to Zimbabwe’s already polarized political landscape.

As citizens grapple with service delivery issues, Mafume’s unexpected praise for Mnangagwa has sparked conversations about collaboration, opposition unity, and Harare’s future trajectory.

The Zim Bulletin