Zimbabwe’s political landscape was rocked on Monday by the announcement of Saviour Kasukuwere, a former ally of the late Robert Mugabe, that he will run for president in the upcoming elections on August 23.
Kasukuwere, who has been living in exile in South Africa since 2017, announced on Monday that he will return to Zimbabwe and run for president in the elections scheduled for August 23.
Kasukuwere was a powerful figure in Mugabe’s regime, serving as his political commissar and local government minister. He fled the country after a military coup that toppled Mugabe and ushered in Emmerson Mnangagwa as president. He briefly returned in 2018, but faced corruption charges that were later dropped by a court. He then went back to South Africa, promising to come back and challenge Mnangagwa’s legitimacy.
Speaking to South African Journalist, Sophie Mokwana, Kasukuwere said he will be making an official statement soon.
“Sophiegood morning. The call has been made and yes I will be making a formal statement on my candidature. Thank you for asking,” said the former minister on his Twitter handle.
Kasukuwere will have to overcome many obstacles in his bid for presidency, including the popularity of Mnangagwa and Citizens Coalition for Change leader Nelson Chamisa, who are the main contenders in the race. He will also have to deal with the shadow of Mugabe, who died in 2019 and left a legacy of division and economic ruin.
