Political tensions are rising within Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF, as President Emmerson Mnangagwa reportedly plans to replace his ambitious deputy, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, with a female candidate, New Zimbabwe has reported.
This move is seen as a strategy to dilute Chiwenga’s influence amid concerns that he may be plotting to block Mnangagwa’s bid for a third presidential term.
Sources reveal that discussions at Tuesday’s Zanu PF Politburo meeting in Harare were charged with tension, highlighting the underlying power struggles between the two leaders. Observers noted that both Mnangagwa and Chiwenga’s body language during the meeting spoke volumes about the brewing conflict.
As the Zanu PF Annual People’s Conference approaches, set to take place in Bulawayo this week, Mnangagwa made a pointed remark that seemed directed towards Chiwenga. He warned against members of the party who consider themselves “more equal than others.” Mnangagwa stressed the importance of unity, discipline, and loyalty within the party, asserting that these values should never be compromised.
In a bid to ensure his power remains unchallenged, Mnangagwa’s revived ‘Lacoste’ faction has reportedly selected Senate President Mabel Chinomona as the preferred candidate to succeed Chiwenga. Chinomona, who is 66 years old, previously held the position of deputy speaker of the National Assembly from 2013 to 2018 and has served as a Member of Parliament for Mutoko North. She has also been the secretary of the Zanu PF Women’s League since 2017.
The Zanu PF Women’s League is advocating for a woman in the presidium and will reportedly push Chinomona’s name forward for the Vice Presidency, ahead of Zanu PF chairman, Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri. This move is seen as part of a broader strategy to increase female representation in leadership roles within the party.
The drive to promote Chinomona has gained momentum, with social media flooded with images and videos of T-shirts bearing the slogan “Cde Mabel Chinomona for Vice President.” The shirts, emblazoned with “Chimhamha, Mudzimai Pachinhu” on the back, are part of an effort to bolster her candidacy.
In response to the swirling speculation and the promotional efforts for Chinomona, Zanu PF Information Director Farai Marapira dismissed the videos and images as “malicious.” He stated, “Central Committee members streaming in to interface as we head into day two of Conference. None are bothered by malicious videos of, ‘t-shirts’ implying jostling for positions. We all here know this is a conference not a congress.”
The supporters have expressed disdain for the plans that would allow Mnangagwa to remain in power beyond 2028, insisting that the President’s ambitions for an extended term should be curtailed.
The slogan “ED 2030,” which has become popularised in Masvingo and other provinces, reflects the growing concern among Chiwenga’s allies about the potential for Mnangagwa to seek further terms in office.
As the political landscape shifts, insiders indicate that the factionalism within Zanu PF is becoming increasingly pronounced. The rift between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga not only highlights individual ambitions but also represents a larger struggle for power within the party.
