Tinotenda Hove – Preparations for the 22nd ZANU PF National People’s Conference, set for October in Mutare, are gathering pace, with party leadership, led by National Chairperson Cde Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, arriving in the city on Thursday to assess progress.

However, public sentiment remains cautious, with many residents expressing doubt over whether the party can bring meaningful change after more than four decades in power.

“After 45 years of Independence, what has ZANU PF actually done for ordinary people?” asked one resident, speaking on condition of anonymity. “We keep hearing about conferences and grand plans, but our daily struggles—jobs, healthcare, services—remain unchanged.”

Another citizen added, “These meetings always feel like political theater. We want results, not just speeches and ceremonies. I can’t see how this conference will be any different.”

Observers note that while the party continues to tout its achievements and long history, public skepticism underscores a widening disconnect between leadership and ordinary citizens. Many question whether these high-profile gatherings genuinely address national challenges or serve primarily as political pageantry.

As preparations continue in Mutare, the spotlight remains on whether ZANU PF can translate rhetoric into tangible improvements for the Zimbabwean people.