President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s spokesperson, George Charamba, has vehemently denied reports of his dismissal from office, dismissing rumours circulating online following a recent significant reshuffle within the Zimbabwean government. The speculation, which gained traction on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), suggested Charamba had been either fired or was on leave.
The rumours began swirling after a series of high-profile changes in President Mnangagwa’s cabinet and security sector. These changes included the reassignment of July Moyo to the Ministry of Energy and Edgar Moyo to the Labour and Public Service portfolio. Significantly, President Mnangagwa also replaced both the Police Commissioner General and the Director-General of the Central Intelligence Organisation, appointing Stephen Mutamba and Fulton Mangwanya respectively. These appointments followed President Mnangagwa’s earlier comments to ZBC News hinting at the dismissal of underperforming government officials in the new year.
One report even claimed that Charamba had been forcibly retired, citing pressure from President Mnangagwa’s family, including his wife Auxillia and sons, to remove the 82-year-old spokesperson. This report further alleged that Charamba was now residing at his farm.
However, Charamba took to X on Monday to directly address the speculation, stating: “I am not on holiday, has never been in the last decade or so. Currently I am the Acting Chief Secretary until 10th January when I pass on the acting baton to Reverend Damasane. In view of developments in the Region, I am unlikely to go on leave at all. All it takes is asking, guys. That, in essence, is the pith of news gathering. Zvinganetsa here izvozvo???”
Charamba’s clarification came after a period of intense online debate fuelled by the government reshuffle. Social media platforms became a breeding ground for unsubstantiated claims, with many users alleging Charamba’s forced retirement. Popular social media personality Majaira Jairos tweeted: “I’m told George Charamba was actually fired and this would be the first time that Mnangagwa has listened to the masses, if it’s true. Charamba had become an old-fashioned speech writer, full of toxin, in a modern world which appreciates political correctness.”
Charamba’s long career, which includes serving as spokesperson for the late President Robert Mugabe, has been marked by controversy. His outspoken nature and often undiplomatic language have made him a polarising figure, attracting both staunch supporters and fierce critics. He has publicly criticised various individuals and entities, including former US Ambassador to Zimbabwe Brian Nichols, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, former Botswana President Ian Khama, and the US and British governments. He has also clashed with The Elders, a respected group of global leaders.
The speculation surrounding Charamba’s alleged dismissal highlights the intense scrutiny faced by high-profile figures in Zimbabwean politics and the significant role social media plays in shaping public perception and disseminating, often unverified, information.
