Tinotenda Hove – Members of the Zanu PF Harare Province Women’s League have sparked debate after a video circulated on social media showing them singing slogans praising President Emmerson Mnangagwa shortly after receiving Christmas gifts reportedly distributed on his behalf.

In the footage, the women are heard chanting “VaMnangagwa ngavarambe vachingotonga” and “Tirikungoti 2030 VaMnangagwa ngavarambe vachitonga,” messages that openly endorse the President remaining in power beyond the current term limit.

The group also praises the ruling party, with chants such as “Well done Team ZANU-PF munogona.”

The video, which has been widely shared online, has triggered criticism from sections of the public who argue that the scene reflects a culture of political patronage and manipulation of vulnerable citizens. Critics say the timing of the gifts, coupled with the political messaging, raises questions about whether humanitarian assistance is being used to extract loyalty and public displays of support for the ruling party.

Some observers expressed concern that festive aid meant to ease hardship during the Christmas period is being politicised, turning beneficiaries into tools for political propaganda. Others warned that such practices deepen divisions and undermine democratic principles by blurring the line between genuine social support and political campaigning.

Supporters of Zanu PF, however, defended the gesture, saying the Women’s League was merely expressing gratitude to President Mnangagwa for remembering them during a difficult economic period. They argue that singing and slogans are part of party culture and should not be misconstrued as coercion.

As the video continues to circulate, it has reignited broader national conversations about the use of state or party-linked resources, loyalty politics, and the pressure placed on ordinary citizens to publicly demonstrate political allegiance in exchange for assistance.