Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF, is interfering in other countries’ politics, and this is causing anger and concern. Many people believe this interference is not right and that it disrespects the right of nations to choose their own leaders. When a country meddles in another nation’s elections, it sets a bad example and weakens democracy in the region.

Zanu PF claims to stand for national sovereignty. The party calls itself patriotic and says it protects Zimbabwe’s independence. But its actions tell a different story. Instead of focusing on solving problems at home, Zanu PF is busy helping ruling parties in other countries. These are mostly former liberation movements struggling to stay in power.

This behavior is not new. Recently, the Botswana Democratic Party lost power after 58 years of rule. Zanu PF’s leaders were upset when the opposition took over in Botswana. President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Zanu PF’s leader, is now trying to help Swapo, the ruling party in Namibia. Swapo is facing challenges in the ongoing elections, with issues like ballot shortages and accusations of unfair practices. Many Namibians are angry about Zanu PF’s interference.

Zanu PF has also interfered in Zambia, South Africa, Mozambique, and Botswana. This has created tension between Zimbabwe and these countries. For example, Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema has spoken against Mnangagwa’s actions. In the past, Mnangagwa supported former Zambian president Edgar Lungu in elections, which worsened relations between the two nations.

Zanu PF’s actions are seen as an attempt to protect its own interests. The party wants to support similar ruling parties in the region. This is driven by fear, as opposition parties are gaining strength across Africa. In recent years, opposition parties have won in Seychelles, Zambia, Malawi, Lesotho, Botswana, and Mauritius. These victories have made Zanu PF and other ruling parties nervous.

To help other ruling parties, Zanu PF shares political strategies, resources, and financial support. It even helps opposition parties in some cases to weaken governments that criticize it. These actions are not just about helping friends—they are about survival and influence. Zanu PF wants to stay powerful in Zimbabwe and the region.

However, this interference has serious consequences. It weakens democracy by undermining people’s right to choose their leaders freely. It also increases political tensions and can destabilize countries. When leaders interfere in elections, it leads to mistrust, anger, and sometimes violence. This harms not just the countries involved but the whole region.

Many people in Namibia, for example, are unhappy with Swapo’s connection to Zanu PF. Job Amupanda, leader of Namibia’s Affirmative Repositioning party, has warned that this alliance will hurt both Swapo and the country. He spoke about this issue recently in Windhoek.

Zanu PF’s interference shows that it is not committed to democracy or respecting other nations’ independence. Instead, it is focused on protecting its power. This behavior is dangerous for Africa. It sends a message that powerful parties can do anything to stay in control, even if it means hurting democracy and regional stability.

The people of Africa deserve better. They deserve leaders who respect their choices and work for their countries, not for political survival. The region must stand against such interference and fight for democracy to protect the future of its nations.