By Staff Reporter
OPPOSITION People’s Unity Party (PUP) leader Herbert Chamuka, Wednesday launched the Inclusive Government Agenda (IGA), intensifying his calls for unity and cooperation across Zimbabwe’s political divide.
Speaking at the launch on Wednesday, Chamuka said the debate over who should succeed President Emmerson Mnangagwa was no longer important, insisting that national focus should instead be on creating an inclusive government that brings together all political players.
“The question of who becomes president or which party wins is no longer crucial. This is not about who becomes president or which party wins. This is about Zimbabwe. Only when we unite can this country move forward,” he said.
Chamuka’s remarks come amid growing calls within ZANU PF for Mnangagwa to extend his rule beyond the constitutionally mandated two five-year terms.
The ruling party leader is currently serving his final term, with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga widely tipped to succeed him, though controversial businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei is also reportedly eyeing the top office.
Chamuka said the newly launched IGA aims to push for a model of collaborative governance that includes all sectors, political parties, civil society, churches, and grassroots communities, to tackle the country’s deepening socio-economic challenges.
“IGA is meant to push for collaborative governance that includes all stakeholders, from political parties and civil society to churches and grassroots communities,” he said.
Several speakers at the event expressed their support for the inclusive governance approach.
Prosper Kadandara, representing the Community Practitioners Network, said unity must be backed by action.
“Unity must be practical. It must mean inclusive policymaking that involves the grassroots, joint maintenance of infrastructure, and local partnerships to improve services. When we recognise that our strength lies in our togetherness, we can respond to the crises we face with courage, wisdom, and compassion,” he said.
Chamuka described the IGA as a constructive and forward-looking initiative to address Zimbabwe’s long-standing political and economic problems.
“Our people are suffering. Instead of fighting each other, let us fight for jobs, better schools, hospitals, and development. That is what inclusive government is all about,” he said.