Tinotenda Hove – ZANU PF spent Monday glorifying Senate President Mabel Memory Chinomona after her appointment as First Vice Chairperson of the Executive Committee of the African Parliamentary Union — a move critics say exposes the ruling party’s obsession with political showmanship while the economy continues to spiral.

Although the party heaped praise on Chinomona, it sidestepped the fact that she also serves as the Secretary of the ZANU PF Women’s League, making the celebration look more like internal political patronage than any genuine continental recognition.

The ruling party claimed her appointment reflects “dedication and unwavering commitment to advancing Africa’s parliamentary collaboration,” but analysts argue this narrative is detached from Zimbabwe’s harsh realities.

“ZANU PF is busy congratulating its elites instead of tackling the collapsing economy,” one political commentator said. “Citizens don’t eat political titles.”

Opposition figures also dismissed the fanfare as yet another attempt to distract the public.

“While families struggle with soaring prices and joblessness, the ruling party chooses to celebrate Chinomona’s new title. It’s political theatre, nothing more,” an opposition MP remarked.

Despite the official claims that her “exemplary leadership” strengthens parliamentary unity across the continent, many Zimbabweans view the celebration as tone-deaf — a symbolic promotion doing nothing to address bread-and-butter issues.

Chinomona’s continental elevation may be good news for ZANU PF’s inner circle, but for ordinary citizens grappling with poverty, failing infrastructure, and an unresponsive government, it offers no relief and no solutions.