Allegations of betrayal and factionalism within Zanu-PF are casting a shadow over President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s authority, with some of his long-time supporters expressing growing disillusionment. The cracks within the ruling party are widening, fuelled by accusations of a shadowy group, dubbed the “Rich Gang,” seizing control and marginalising those who championed Mnangagwa’s rise to power.
The discontent is palpable among those who publicly declared unwavering loyalty to Mnangagwa in the turbulent period leading up to the 2017 coup that ousted Robert Mugabe. Godfrey Gomwe, a prominent figure among these loyalists, famously declared at a 2017 press conference: “we will stand with President Emmerson Mnangagwa until our last breath”. This pledge, echoed by many others, now appears to be a stark contrast to the current reality.
Party insiders paint a picture of deep-seated frustration. “Those who stood with ED before he became President are feeling sidelined, neglected, betrayed and left to suffer while the mafikizolo [newcomers] pull the strings and take credit,” one insider revealed.
The “Rich Gang” is accused of fostering factionalism and prioritising its own interests over the welfare of long-standing supporters. This alleged manipulation is creating internal divisions, a source warned, adding: “There is a dark shadow working to frustrate Mnangagwa’s loyalists and it’s creating divisions that could destabilise the party.”
The concerns are echoed in a WhatsApp group, Dare Rezvoto, boasting over 1,000 active Mnangagwa loyalists. Jones Musara, the national chairperson for Varakashi 4ED, voiced his anxieties: “Two terms dzaBaba vedu VaMnangagwa dzichakaropera maloyalist achingochema kuti mugwazo hauna kuzowanika. Chandadzidza ndechekuti ainzi maLacoste mazhinji acho haana spirit yekusimudzira vamwe . . . it’s one man for himself, God for us all.” He continued, “But musi uchauya war against malacoste tichazowona kukosha kwekusimudzirana otherwise inenga yave mumwe nemumwe yourself.” This translates roughly to concerns that loyalists will be left weeping after two terms, and that many lacked the spirit of mutual upliftment.
The plight of several loyalists further fuels these concerns. Gomwe and Kudakwashe Damson, both from Harare, have reportedly been issued prohibition orders, highlighting the alleged witch-hunt targeting those who once championed Mnangagwa. This has led to questions about the fate of these individuals, with critics asking, “Where are they now?”
The growing rift is not only causing internal strife but also threatens to undermine Zanu-PF’s unity ahead of future elections. Internal power struggles appear to be overshadowing the President’s authority, raising concerns about the party’s stability.
However, Zanu-PF director of information, Farai Marapira, dismissed these claims on Saturday, asserting the party’s unity: “The party cannot be aware of lies created by our detractors,” Marapira stated. “The party is united and focused to ensure that the President’s vision 2030 is achieved.”
The challenges facing Mnangagwa’s loyalists extend beyond political manoeuvring. Reports emerged last week concerning Tendayi Zinyama, known as “Mfecane,” another prominent supporter facing legal trouble. He is facing court action over unpaid rent in Bulawayo, according to a summons dated December 12, 2024. The summons alleges that Zinyama owes US$1 090 (or the Zimbabwean dollar equivalent) in rental arrears for his office at 98 Robert Mugabe Way. He has been given 14 days to settle the debt or face eviction and further legal action.
