Gifford Sibanda has stepped down from his role as spokesperson for Ibhetshu LikaZulu, a group known for its outspoken stance against the Zanu PF government, citing differences with the organization’s current strategy. Sibanda’s resignation follows reports that Secretary General Mbuso Fuzwayo is cooperating with Zanu PF as the party seeks to secure an extension for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term beyond its constitutional end in 2028. While the group was once targeted by authorities and even saw members detained for opposing government policies, it is currently involved as an applicant in a Constitutional Court case that appears designed to challenge, but ultimately not block, the extension plan.
Sibanda stated in his resignation letter that recent shifts in Ibhetshu LikaZulu’s approach do not align with his convictions or the group’s founding principles. The allegations that Fuzwayo has been assigned to mount an ineffective legal challenge, thereby removing obstacles to Zanu PF’s ambitions, remain unconfirmed, as Fuzwayo has not responded to inquiries. Meanwhile, internal divisions within Zanu PF have reportedly deepened after the party reaffirmed its intention at a recent conference to pursue changes allowing Mnangagwa to remain in office until 2030.
Sibanda stated in his resignation letter that recent shifts in Ibhetshu LikaZulu’s approach do not align with his convictions or the group’s founding principles. The allegations that Fuzwayo has been assigned to mount an ineffective legal challenge, thereby removing obstacles to Zanu PF’s ambitions, remain unconfirmed, as Fuzwayo has not responded to inquiries. Meanwhile, internal divisions within Zanu PF have reportedly deepened after the party reaffirmed its intention at a recent conference to pursue changes allowing Mnangagwa to remain in office until 2030.
