By Dhaudhi Muzezuru
In an open letter, Linda Tsungirirai Masarira, the president of the Labour, Economists and African Democrats (LEAD) political party, offered counsel to businessman Kuda Tagwirei amidst the current political landscape in Zimbabwe.
Masarira’s letter addresses the perils of elite politics and urges Tagwirei to re-evaluate his political ambitions, which have recently been a source of public debate.
Masarira critiques Tagwirei’s alleged reliance on elite-level maneuvering within ZANU-PF, suggesting that this approach is his greatest weakness and reinforces the public perception that his philanthropic activities are merely a form of “image cleansing.”
She emphasizes that true, sustainable political power is earned through genuine, tangible service at the grassroots level, not through backroom deals in a committee room.
The letter serves as a plea for genuine grassroots connection and unifying leadership. Masarira highlights that the Zimbabwean people are exhausted by internal party factional battles and are crying out for leadership that prioritizes their welfare.
She points out that while Tagwirei’s sponsorship of football clubs and his support for Arundel Hospital show an understanding of public passion and welfare, these actions must be part of a broader, unambiguous commitment to the public good to translate into genuine political capital.
Masarira calls on Tagwirei to use his immense resources to directly alleviate the suffering of ordinary Zimbabweans through scalable free health services, educational support, and economic opportunity initiatives.
Ultimately, Masarira encourages Tagwirei to step back from the factional fray and become a unifier and peacemaker. She argues that a legacy built on steering Zimbabwe towards peace and transformation would be far more valuable than that of a “factional kingmaker” in a divided party.
The letter frames Tagwirei’s actions and influence as a critical juncture, urging him to choose a path of service, integrity, and a clear commitment to the common good to win the hearts and minds of the people. This approach, she suggests, is the only true foundation for legitimate and lasting political power in Zimbabwe.
