Former Zimbabwe Energy Minister, Fortune Chasi, has signaled his willingness to serve again amid public demand for his return to address the country’s ongoing electricity crisis.
Zimbabwe is grappling with severe power shortages, exacerbated by low water levels at Lake Kariba, which feeds the Kariba Hydroelectric Station, and aging infrastructure at the Hwange Thermal Power Station.
In a social media post on Monday, Chasi acknowledged the growing calls for his reinstatement, expressing gratitude for the public’s confidence in his abilities. He wrote:
“I am aware of the requests for my return to my former position, and I do not take your faith in me lightly. As I have said before, serving my country is a duty, and I am ready.”
Chasi’s potential return gained traction following a nationwide blackout, which ZESA attributed to a “system disturbance.”
Chasi was dismissed from his ministerial role in 2020, with the government citing a mismatch between his conduct and the president’s expectations. His removal came shortly after his efforts to challenge the fuel monopolies and to implement changes in the fuel sector, particularly addressing the monopoly held by Sakunda Holdings. His initiatives were reportedly met with opposition from powerful fuel cartels.
His successor, Edgar Moyo, previously served as Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education.