The recently published book by Lovemore Itai Mukandi, partially entitled Blindsided, a former Deputy Director of the Central Intelligence Organization (CIO), provides a deep dive into the political machinations of Emmerson Mnangagwa, the current President of Zimbabwe.
Delivered to Hopewell Chin’ono in the UK and he read during an eight-hour flight to Canada. Chin’ono states that the book offers critical insights into the strategies Mnangagwa employed to ascend to power.
Key Themes and Revelations
- Long-Term Planning: Mukandi details how Mnangagwa meticulously planned his rise to the presidency from the 1980s, recognizing his unelectability within the ZANU-PF party and national elections. This foresight allowed him to navigate the political landscape effectively.
- State Capture: The book exposes Mnangagwa’s systematic capture of key state institutions, including the judiciary, military, and media. It highlights his use of journalists to disseminate false narratives against opponents, thereby manipulating public perception.
- Parallel Structures: One of the most alarming revelations is Mnangagwa’s continuation of a parallel CIO structure after leaving the Ministry of State Security in 1999. This allowed him to maintain influence and control behind the scenes, often undermining Robert Mugabe.
- Ethnic Politics: Mukandi argues that Mnangagwa’s leadership style is characterized by ethnic favoritism, appointing only his clansmen to significant positions, which has roots dating back to the 1980s.
- Controversial Connections: The book discusses Mnangagwa’s ties to apartheid-era elements and the retention of Rhodesian operatives within the CIO, raising concerns about the security implications for anti-apartheid fighters in Zimbabwe.
- Violence and Intimidation: Mukandi recounts chilling incidents, including orders for ritualistic killings and the manipulation of the legal system to persecute political adversaries, showcasing the lengths Mnangagwa would go to maintain power.
- Future Ambitions: After reading the book, Chin’ono expresses concern over Mnangagwa’s potential plans for 2030, suggesting that he is creating distractions while pursuing a hidden agenda that could secure his interests long-term.
Conclusion
Mukandi’s book serves as a crucial resource for understanding the complexities of Zimbabwean politics and the historical context of Mnangagwa’s rise. It emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in leadership, particularly in a nation where state institutions have been historically abused for personal gain. The insights provided are not only valuable for political analysts but also for ordinary citizens seeking to comprehend the dynamics of power in Zimbabwe. The book is available on Amazon for those interested in exploring these themes further.
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