Tinotenda Hove – People’s Unity Party (PUP) leader Herbert Chamuka has returned to the country to campaign for renewed political dialogue, which he says is the only viable path toward national stability and development.

Chamuka is expected to brief journalists at the Media Centre on Wednesday, where he will present what he terms the Inclusive Government Agenda (IGA), a framework aimed at uniting political parties, civil society organisations and other national stakeholders.

He says the initiative comes at a critical time, as Zimbabwe grapples with deepening economic challenges and persistent concerns over governance and human rights.

In recent months, Chamuka has controversially called for the suspension of the 2028 general elections, arguing that the current political environment makes a credible poll impossible.

“The 2028 polls will not be free and fair if they proceed under the current conditions,” Chamuka said. “The election will be used as a tool to entrench the ruling party’s grip on power.”

Instead of elections, Chamuka is advocating for the establishment of an inclusive government formed through negotiations, with a mandate to address citizens’ immediate social and economic hardships.

“We need a government that is formed through dialogue, not through coercion and manipulation,” he said. “An inclusive government is the only way to restore trust, rebuild the economy and address human rights concerns.”

According to Chamuka, the IGA would also confront unresolved historical and national issues, including the Gukurahundi atrocities, compensation for victims, and broader processes of reconciliation and economic recovery.

“We cannot continue to ignore the wounds of the past,” he said. “There must be a process of healing, accountability and justice.”

Political analysts and observers caution that while the proposals have sparked debate, their success will largely depend on whether key political actors and institutions are willing to engage in genuine and meaningful dialogue amid an already tense political climate.