Why this Zimbabwean wants to form a ‘Government in Exile’
· The South African
A Zimbabwean activist, Brett MuVet, has launched a new political party from abroad and says he wants to establish a “Government in Exile” to help plan for political change in Zimbabwe.
Brett is behind V.V.Z, which stands for Varanda Ve Zimbabwe or Servants of Zimbabwe, a movement he says was created to improve the lives of ordinary Zimbabweans.
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According to Brett, the decision to operate from outside Zimbabwe is driven by what he describes as a closed political space in the country.
Why Brett wants a Zimbabwe Government in Exile
Brett says Zimbabweans living outside the country can play a role in organising and preparing for change, arguing that conventional political avenues are no longer sufficient.
He wants to establish a Government in Exile made up of Zimbabweans based outside the country who would work on plans for a future government.
The proposed structure would require an office, staff and training programmes, with Brett saying he also wants to train people in government and security-related areas.
However, the proposal is currently Brett’s stated political plan and it remains to be seen how such a structure would operate or gain recognition.
What Brett says is wrong with Zimbabwe
The new political movement is built around what Brett describes as the everyday struggles facing ordinary Zimbabweans.
He points to shortages and poor access to basic services, including clean drinking water and medicine in hospitals.
He also highlights concerns over roads, classrooms, employment and economic opportunities.
Brett has questioned why political leaders can live in large houses, drive expensive vehicles and travel in business class while many ordinary citizens continue to struggle to access basic services.
His argument is that political leadership should be focused on improving living conditions rather than enjoying privileges while citizens face hardship.
Fighting for Zimbabweans to have better lives
Brett insists that his political ambitions are not motivated by money or personal power.
He says he lives a relatively modest life, describing himself as someone with a small house and an average car who still cleans his own home.
“I am fighting so that other Zimbabweans can have the life that I have,” he says.
Brett also claims that he has rejected offers of money and gifts because he does not want his political project to be driven by personal financial gain.
For Brett, the movement is also about the legacy he wants to leave for his son.
He says he wants his son to grow up knowing that his father stood up for what he believed was right and worked towards creating a better future for Zimbabweans.
“I want my son to know that his father stood for what is right,” Brett says.
For now, V.V.Z remains a new political initiative, with Brett seeking to build support among Zimbabweans at home and abroad for his vision of an alternative political structure.