The Zimbabwe African National Union – Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF) is a political party in Zimbabwe that was formed in 1987 through a merger of the Zimbabwe African National Union and the Patriotic Front. It has been the ruling party since Robert Mugabe became Prime Minister in 1980, following the country's independence from British colonial rule. ZANU-PF's ideology is rooted in nationalism and socialism, focusing on land reform and economic empowerment for the black majority. ZANU-PF has faced criticism for its governance, including allegations of human rights abuses and electoral fraud. The party has maintained a strong grip on power despite economic challenges and political opposition. In recent years, leadership changes, including the ousting of Mugabe in 2017, have led to shifts within the party, but it continues to play a significant role in Zimbabwe's political landscape.