Shady characters scramble for Zanu PF poll tickets

Makunde was expelled as Chitungwiza town clerk for corruption.

Moyo was charged with criminal abuse of office over the alleged awarding of a $60 million contract for Covid-19 supplies.

He was sacked by Mnangagwa as Health minister.

Political analyst Edred Masunungure said Zanu PF has established itself as a protective shield against the state’s assegai.

“Those with a shady and dirty past have a huge incentive to join the party given its record of either granting immunity to, or impunity for those who have committed all manner of crimes, including grand corruption and graft,” Masunungure said.

“In short, the party seems to have over time weaponised the dirty records of many 'chefs' and mbingas who are compelled by the law of necessity and survival to be party candidates in order to seek political sanctuary.

“And, of course, they will have a strong vested interest in ensuring that the party wins resulting in a win-win situation.

“It's a matter of displaying and/or faking loyalty and you are safe from Chikurubi.

“Any alternative government cannot guarantee this.”

Another analyst Methuseli Moyo said: “It would appear that the people are seeking sanctuary in Zanu PF.

“However, some may be genuine Zanu PF members. I suppose they find these sorts of characters in all mass parties.”

Political analyst Effie Ncube said there was no way a clean government could emerge from people who had been involved in corrupt activities.

"Political parties should take people seriously,” Ncube said.

“Corruption is destroying the country, but the ruling party seems not to care. This needs to change.”

Political analyst Kudakwashe Munemo said some of the individuals are doing it to increase and consolidate their personal influence within the party and take cover for their shady deals.

“Given such financial muscles we anticipate, as we have already seen, vote-buying gimmicks and internal fighting in a bid to attain political power at all costs,” Munemo said.