Zanu PF’s Factional Struggles and Alleged Plot Against VP Chiwenga Exposed
A faction within Zimbabwe’s Zanu PF party attempted to oust Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, reflecting rising tensions as factions vie for power ahead of the 2028 elections. Allegations indicate orchestrated efforts to marginalize Chiwenga due to his perceived ambitions for presidential leadership, alongside a reshuffling of government roles. This situation evokes uncertainties regarding the party’s future and implications for national stability, especially with protests on the horizon.
In a recent development within Zimbabwe’s ruling Zanu PF party, a faction loyal to President Emmerson Mnangagwa purportedly sought to remove Vice President Constantino Chiwenga during a central committee meeting. This reported plot was interrupted by intense infighting among party members, signifying rising tensions as various factions vie for power in anticipation of the 2028 elections.
Chiwenga, who previously served as an army general instrumental in the 2017 military intervention that brought Mnangagwa to power, has become a target for party members seeking to consolidate power. His perceived aspirations for the presidency have raised concerns among party leaders, especially after Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi reportedly expressed intentions for Mnangagwa to remain in office until 2030.
In light of this situation, some factions within Zanu PF view Chiwenga as a political rival, fearing he may contest Mnangagwa’s leadership. Allegations suggest that efforts to marginalize him are being orchestrated via party structures, with increased calls for his replacement by benefactor Kudakwashe Tagwirei. Sources assert that plans to integrate Tagwirei into central power dynamics are underway, with another crucial meeting anticipated to discuss leadership transitions.
Nevertheless, reports indicate that Chiwenga has retained significant support, particularly among loyalists within the security sector and party ranks, which has impeded the planned removal. The reshuffling of government roles, wherein Chiwenga was appointed Minister of Health while remaining Vice President, appears to be a tactic aimed at diminishing his influence.
Commentators believe these events reveal significant divisions within Zanu PF, leading to precarious uncertainties regarding the party’s future leadership. According to one analyst, “This battle is far from over. Chiwenga still commands significant support within the military, and any attempt to remove him will not be easy.”
The ongoing tensions have been noted by opposition groups, who argue that the internal strife reflects a leadership that prioritizes factional conflicts over addressing the nation’s economic difficulties. As protests scheduled for March 31st approach, the ramifications of this discord within Zanu PF could have significant implications for Zimbabwe’s overall stability. At the time of publication, efforts to obtain comments from Chiwenga’s office and senior Zanu PF officials regarding the allegations were unsuccessful.
In summary, the internal strife within Zanu PF reveals a significant power struggle, particularly targeting Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, amid fears of his potential challenge to President Mnangagwa. The party’s growing divisions can impact its stability and governance, undermining efforts to address national challenges. The situation necessitates close monitoring, particularly given the upcoming protests and the uncertain political climate ahead of the 2028 elections.
Original Source: www.thezimbabwemail.com
