Harare – ICT, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera is facing intense criticism following an incident at the National Heroes Acre on Monday.
The song, containing the lyrics “mupanduki mupanduki nguva yakwana, chera mwena” (traitor, traitor, your time is up), was interpreted by many as a thinly veiled accusation against Chiwenga. This sparked outrage among Chiwenga’s supporters, who viewed the incident as a grave disrespect not only to the Acting President but also to the sanctity of the Heroes Acre itself.
The burial, intended as a solemn occasion to honour a national hero, instead became a stage for a highly visible display of Zanu-PF infighting. Two distinct groups were present: Mavetera’s “Young Women for ED,” clad in pink t-shirts and waving faux crocodiles – a symbol of loyalty to President Emmerson Mnangagwa – and another group openly supporting Chiwenga.
The pro-Chiwenga group countered Mavetera’s song with their own, chanting “siyanai naye Chiwenga munovengerei” (leave Chiwenga alone, why do you hate him?). Their support intensified with each of Chiwenga’s pronouncements against corruption during the ceremony.
The General Chiwenga Voluntary Supporters Association (GCVSA) issued a strongly worded press statement condemning Mavetera’s actions. Secretary-General Ntokozo Msipha described the incident as a “direct provocation” and an “act of betrayal,” accusing Mavetera of defiling the sacred grounds of the Heroes Acre.
“Heroes Acre is not a playground for political theatrics,” the statement read. “It is hallowed ground where the bravest sons and daughters of Zimbabwe rest, a site consecrated by the sacrifices of those who fought for our liberation.” Msipha further labelled Mavetera’s behaviour as “reckless” and “dishonourable,” stating that it was an “unforgivable insult” to Chiwenga, the Zimbabwean military, war veterans, and patriotic citizens.
The statement emphasised Chiwenga’s significance as a decorated war veteran and former military commander, portraying any attack on his dignity as an attack on the nation’s revolutionary values.
“General Chiwenga is not just a leader; he is a guardian of Zimbabwe’s sovereignty,” the statement declared. “Any assault on his dignity is an assault on the values of our revolution.”
The GCVSA issued a stern warning, stating that further provocations would not be tolerated. “Let this statement serve as a final warning — discipline, respect and loyalty are the cornerstones of leadership. Those who fail to uphold them will find themselves on the wrong side of history,” Msipha concluded.
The incident has fuelled speculation about deepening factionalism within Zanu-PF, particularly in light of recent attempts to amend the Constitution to extend Mnangagwa’s term in office. Last year, Mnangagwa publicly stated his disinterest in extending his term, yet Zanu-PF subsequently adopted a resolution at its annual people’s conference extending his tenure to 2030. This move prompted the Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations to urge Mnangagwa to resist any constitutional amendments aimed at prolonging his presidency.
Political analysts have linked the incident to the escalating tensions within the ruling party. Lazarus Sauti, a lecturer at the University of Zimbabwe, suggested that the composition of Mnangagwa’s cabinet, often criticised for lacking merit-based appointments, contributes to such incidents.
“Most, if not all, public office holders are not chosen based on merit,” Sauti stated. “So, they lack knowledge on how to formulate policies that can transform our economy in many respects. Mavetera is a prime example. She was busy at the national shrine dancing kongonya dissing political opponents instead of promoting ICT policies.”
Zanu-PF spokesperson Farai Marapira attempted to distance the party from Mavetera’s actions, stating that “Young Women for ED is an affiliate of the party Zanu PF and it is an independent juristic person therefore it has its own structures that speak and defend on its own behalf. I speak on behalf of the party.”
Mavetera herself remained unavailable for comment. Attempts to reach her by phone were unsuccessful.
The incident at the Heroes Acre has ignited a firestorm of debate on social media, with many calling for Mavetera’s resignation. Some commentators have even drawn parallels to the exodus of Professor Jonathan Moyo and other G40 members during the 2017
“Operation Restore Legacy,” suggesting a similar fate may await Mavetera. The incident underscores the deep divisions within Zanu-PF and raises questions about the future stability of the ruling party. The political stage is undoubtedly set for further drama as the factional battles continue to unfold. Last week, during the burial of three other national heroes, Chiwenga himself had described disrespect as “a mortal sin which he said cannot be forgiven on earth and in heaven” – a pronouncement that now casts a long shadow over this escalating conflict.
