Kasukuwere presidential bid could force Zimbabwe to go for a runoff, if the 23 August polls do not produce a clear majority.
News Writer
SELF exiled former Zanu PF commissar Saviour Kasukuwere is expected to make a formal bid as a presidential candidate in this year’s polls.
In a twist of political fate, Kasukuwere who fronted the G40 cabal, which was hounded out of the country following the coup that toppled Robert Mugabe, Kasukuwere confirmed his bid on Twitter.
Asked by SABC journalist, Sophie Mokoena if he would be part of the 2023 race for presidency, Kasukuwere said he would announce his bid soon.
“Sophie good morning. The call has been made and yes, I will be making a formal statement on my candidature. Thank you for asking,” Kasukuwere said in a response on Twitter.
Zimbabweans will choose their next president on 23 August.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa is seeking a second term in office as youthful pastor and lawyer; Nelson Chamisa looks to break Zanu PF’s 43 stranglehold on power.
But Kasukuwere’s hint on running for presidency has sent tongues wagging over a possible vote split.
Reminiscent of Mavambo, Kusile, Dawn Simba Makoni’s 2008 run for presidency which left the country without a clear winner between Mugabe and former MDC president Morgan Tsvangirayi.
Kasukuwere presidential bid could force Zimbabwe to go for a runoff, if the 23 August polls do not produce a clear majority.
Critics say Kasukuwere could split the main opposition, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) votes while not posing a real threat for Mnangagwa.
Kasukuwere’s allies, Jonathan Moyo and Walter Muzembi have in the past endorsed Mnangagwa’s candidature.
The former Zanu PF commissar, who endeared himself with Mugabe’s wife Grace as part of the G40 dodged a jail sentence when he escaped the country while the former leader was under house arrest.
Along with Moyo, exiled in Kenya said they escaped death by a whisker as the military coup unfolded.
Before the coup, Kasukuwere was touted as a likely successor to Mugabe, although Grace was also a favorite to take over from her husband.
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