New faith-based party, United People’s Nation, vow...

New faith-based party, United People’s Nation, vows to fight graft, prioritise people in Zimbabwe’s 2028 elections

Oscar J Jeke

Zim Now Reporter

Deriving inspiration and direction from a spiritual basis, a new political ground is taking shape, the form yet to taste nor draw its sword in what has been dubbed “contested” elections in Zimbabwe, the United People’s Nation party looks to dominate and conquer hardships faced by ordinary Zimbabweans.

It’s president, Garikai Muza, a God-fearing man promises Canaan, restoration of people’s hopes of a corruption-free nation and a people-centred government. The core values of the party founded upon an uncompromising stance on the power of unity, sections and bits the party has learnt and taken from biblical historical societies. However, the door is shut for any alliances or coalitions, as the party looks set for the next general election in 2028, where lessons and evidence of the deadly nature of such political experiences have proven costly.

“Our past political experiences have revealed a significant pattern of disappointment among the general population when it comes to so-called ‘United Parties’,” writes Muza as he explains how the ordinary people have been left out of the equation in somewhat an unexplainable context, adding that, “it has become evident that citizens are in dire need of a leadership that prioritises their well-being and genuinely cares for their interests,” in its deep meaning, it entails a struggle emanating from standing for the mases with truth and honesty, rather than pursuing a perpetual cycle of continual let-downs.

Comprehensive plans have already started to take shape, ideologies pinned down, one may interpret as manifestos, whereby identification of correction points and notice of intent have been launched and prescribed in their shared beliefs and values.

One such value is centred on prioritising open and transparent communication between sections of power and the people through active engagement, ensuring that aspirations, ideas and voices of the masses are heard and incorporated into decision-making processes.

Fostering inclusivity in governance has been earmarked as a beacon of hope and shade of light for a prosperous Zimbabwe, with the UPN targeting to accommodate a diverse and broad spectrum of stakeholders and idealists within the various sectors of the Zimbabwean society, to collaborate on national issues collectively.

However, knowing the nature of the electoral field they wish to partake in, the UPN has made electoral reforms a priority amongst many of their aspersions thereby ensuring free and fair playing fields for all participants and the electorate.

“It is crucial to establish a level playing field that allows all Zimbabweans to participate in the democratic process without fear or intimidation,” through this, party leader Muza believes, the solution lies in strengthening democratic institutions and promoting a free and independent media that builds solid foundations to penetrate through layers of governance and policy making within government and all bureaucratic structures.

Accountability and a core trust in the government is fundamental to pushing development and sustainability, especially when the people are given power to hold their government accountable for their actions. Through this, Muza concurs that effective anti-corruption measures and strict adherence to ethical standards, there can be a restoration of trust in the government and foster a culture of transparency and accountability.

Muza is grieved by the nature of management, that is in terms of Zimbabwe’s rich natural reserve in mineral resource and assets, which he identifies as the biggest problem faced by the country which needs correcting if any positive development is to come by. He is of the belief that gross mismanagement has led to an economic crisis that hampers sustainable development as well as threatening any long-term goals of the country.

The solution to this, according to the UPN president, sits in effective regulatory frameworks and enforcement mechanisms that culminate in proper oversight of how natural resources are exploited taking consideration of long-term sustainability goals.

“There is a need to address the issue of corruption and mismanagement within the natural resource sector. When resources are misappropriated or unlawfully exploited for personal gain, it deprives the country of the revenue that could be used for public services, infrastructure development, and poverty reduction. This perpetuates the economic crisis and exacerbates inequalities within society.”

In this regard, the UPN views community engagement and participation in decision-making processes related to natural resource management as essential whereby by involvement of local communities, indigenous groups, and other stakeholders, can ensure a variety of views and insights especially in traditionally grounded communities such as in the Zimbabwean context where traditional knowledge systems are valued.

He connotes that such policies of inclusivity will not only foster a sense of ownership and responsibility but also promote sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the economy.

He hopes to gain support among the electorate so as to demonstrate true democracy and good governance that ensures equity in gender-based wealth appropriation and provision of basic amenities to the people of Zimbabwe, creating a conducive atmosphere which is appropriate to investment and restoration of the bread basket status for the country.