Innocent Mujeri
IN August this year, the country will go for elections to elect the President, Members of Parliament and councillors who will steer the country’s development agenda for the next five years.
During election time, a number of political chancers want to try their luck as MPs or presidential candidates as was the case in 2018 when the presidential ballot paper had 21 aspiring candidates.
Indeed, it is everyone’s right to contest in an election and again it is also proper that one is able to elect the MP or President of choice.
However, when it comes to electing a President, choosing someone who can develop the country is essential.
This means that as Zimbabweans, we need a leader who is willing to look beyond own interests and focus on what will benefit the nation as a whole.
When electing a President, we should elect someone skilled at creating policies that promote economic growth, innovation, and sustainability while also prioritising healthcare, education, and social equity.
But it is not just about having grand ideas; we need someone who has a proven track record of turning their words into actions.
Furthermore, they should have strong interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with different sectors of society and create alliances and unions with other nations.
Ultimately, electing a President who can truly develop the country requires our due diligence in researching on candidates’ past accomplishments and understanding their plans for the future.
An old adage says with great power comes great responsibility.
As the leader of a nation, a President should always prioritise the needs and interests of their people.
It is not just about winning elections or pushing your personal agenda; it is about being a voice that advocates for those who are most vulnerable and in need of support.
From providing relief in times of crisis to investing in education, healthcare, and social welfare programmes, there are countless ways that presidents can make a positive impact on their communities.
And while there will always be political differences and disagreements, it is important for our leaders to put aside their ego and work together towards common goals for the greater good.
At the end of the day, a country is only as strong as its people, so let us make sure we elect leaders who truly care about serving the nation.
When it comes to the leader of a country, one should not simply rely on their charisma or eloquence alone. Being president demands more than just a likable personality. A good leader should have a track record of integrity, competence, and his/her ability to handle difficult decisions skilfully.
This is why, before taking office, the presidential candidates go through extensive debates and scrutiny by the public and media outlets to ensure that they meet these criteria.
A president who is tried and tested undergoes rigorous tests that showcase his/her experience and leadership abilities, qualities that every citizen deserves from their elected heads of state.
Therefore, rather than seeking representation solely on likeability factors, the true test of presidential candidacy lies in their capability to make sound ethical decisions in times of crisis with empathy towards its citizens’ well-being as paramount importance.
Being patriotic means having a genuine love and dedication to one’s own country.
As the leader of a nation, a president should display this trait to inspire trust and loyalty from the people. A patriotic president would prioritise national interests above personal gain or foreign relations.
This does not mean they must be blind followers of the Government, but rather critical thinkers who aim to improve their country’s image and welfare while staying true to its cultural and historical values.
A good example of being a patriotic leader is taking responsibility for mistakes made by the administration instead of shifting blame elsewhere. It also entails empathising with citizens’ needs regardless of background and acknowledging differences as part of the nation’s fabric. Overall, patriotism is essential for any leader entrusted with upholding the prosperity and safety of their homeland.
It should also be known that being a president is a pretty big responsibility. Part of that responsibility is being politically mature. What does that mean, exactly?
Well, it means that the president should be able to handle disagreements and differing opinions in a calm and professional manner.
It also means being able to compromise and work towards solutions that benefit everyone, not just one particular group or party.
A politically mature president is someone who understands that they represent all Zimbabweans, not just those who voted for them. They know how to listen and take advice from others, especially experts in various fields.
In short, a politically mature president is someone who can handle the pressure of the job with grace and compassion for their fellow citizens.
Furthermore, in August this year, it is important that we all vote for a development-oriented president. The truth is, our country has a lot of potential for growth and progress, but we need someone who will be proactive in ensuring that happens. This means prioritising infrastructure development, job creation, and poverty reduction efforts.
It also means promoting policies that enable business owners and entrepreneurs to succeed, as they are crucial players in driving economic activity.
A development-oriented leader will not only focus on these goals but would possess the necessary skills and experience to execute them effectively.
So let us do our part by researching each candidate’s development-focused plan before casting our vote this coming August.
As we prepare to vote for the president this year, lets bear in mind that the leader of our country needs to have his own thoughts and opinions, not just blindly follow what everyone tells him to do.
It is important for a president to have the ability to make informed decisions based on their own judgement and values. Sure, they may have advisors and cabinet members who offer input and guidance, but ultimately it is up to the president to call the shots. Being a puppet president only leads to weak leadership and a lack of respect from other nations. So let us all agree that our future president is capable of taking charge, is confidence and able to make decisions based on what they believe is best for our country.
The question now is who should we vote as our next President? The answer is simple. As Zimbabweans, we have a God given leader in President Mnangagwa. Since 2017, he has proven that he is a capable leader who has a vision to see Zimbabwe leapfrog its regional peers in terms of development.
President Mnangagwa has shown that he is a man of action who is determined to transform our country into the business hub of Africa.
Yes, many presidential candidates will emerge promising heaven on earth but let us remember that the only man who could take us to the Promised Land is none other than President Mnangagwa. As we go and vote this coming election, let’ us be sober and vote for the ‘Game Changer’, President Mnangagwa.



