Tensions are simmering within Zanu-PF, with provincial structures openly accusing prominent businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei of exacerbating internal divisions and factionalism. This explosive claim emerged from a meeting two weeks ago at President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Precabe Farm outside Kwekwe, where provincial leaders confronted the businessman directly, Newsday has reported.
The meeting, led by Midlands Provincial Affairs minister Owen “Mudha” Ncube, saw a concerted effort by provincial chairpersons to address what they perceive as Tagwirei’s manipulative influence within the party. They allege that Tagwirei is secretly funding both factions vying for power within Zanu-PF, thereby fuelling the existing conflict.
Currently, Zanu-PF is deeply divided in its loyalties, primarily split between President Mnangagwa and his deputy, Constantino Chiwenga. While Chiwenga is considered a frontrunner to succeed Mnangagwa in 2028, Mnangagwa’s loyalists are actively pushing for an extension of his rule beyond his constitutionally mandated term, despite his repeated public statements to the contrary.
This ambition to extend Mnangagwa’s tenure has led to a flurry of activity within the party. Zanu-PF provincial chairpersons have been traversing the country, rallying support for the “2030 project,” as it’s known. Numerous inter-district meetings have been held with the same objective, often resulting in purges of those perceived as supporting Chiwenga, particularly in Harare and Masvingo.
However, the meeting at Precabe Farm revealed a more nuanced picture. Provincial chairpersons, including Ncube, Mary Mliswa (Mashonaland West), and Richard Moyo (Matabeleland North), voiced their concerns to President Mnangagwa about Tagwirei’s alleged duplicity. A source privy to the meeting revealed, “It was Ncube (Midlands) who complained first and was supported by Mary Mliswa (Mashonaland West) and Richard Moyo (Matabeleland North),” adding that others echoed similar accusations.
“They told Mnangagwa that although Tagwirei was supporting them, he was also financing those supporting Chiwenga and this was tantamount to sponsoring infighting,” another source who attended the meeting confirmed. The accusations paint a picture of Tagwirei playing a double game, ostensibly supporting Mnangagwa’s ambitions while simultaneously funding those loyal to Chiwenga.
This alleged behaviour is viewed by the provincial chairpersons as opportunistic and a betrayal of loyalty. “We feel he is an opportunist. But if he wants to support you, he should support you alone, not both of you. This is sponsoring factionalism and this cannot be tolerated,” the source explained, highlighting the gravity of the situation within the party.
Reports suggest Tagwirei’s involvement in Zanu-PF’s finances dates back to the era of the late former President Robert Mugabe, with allegations of lucrative government tenders secured in exchange for financial support. He is also believed to have played a significant role in funding Mnangagwa’s rise to power. Initially a close ally of Chiwenga, Tagwirei’s allegiances reportedly shifted towards Mnangagwa, only to seemingly reconcile with Chiwenga again, potentially out of concern for Chiwenga’s potential ascendance.
When contacted for comment, Minister Ncube declined to engage with NewsDay Weekender, stating simply, “I don’t speak to NewsDay.” Tagwirei himself did not respond to repeated requests for comment sent over several days.
The current controversy within Zanu-PF adds another layer of complexity to his already precarious position. The situation remains fluid, with the potential for significant political ramifications within Zanu-PF as the party navigates these internal power struggles.
