A faction loyal to President Mnangagwa within Zimbabwe’s Zanu PF party has attempted to remove Vice President Chiwenga, revealing deep internal divisions. Alleged plots to sideline Chiwenga and replace him with Kudakwashe Tagwirei illustrate escalating tensions as factions vie for power ahead of the 2028 elections. Opposition groups perceive these conflicts as indicative of a leadership focused on internal battles rather than national economic issues.
A faction within Zimbabwe’s ruling Zanu PF party, loyal to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, reportedly attempted to oust Vice President Constantino Chiwenga during a recent central committee meeting. The Standard indicates this plot was interrupted due to intense infighting as factions vie for dominance in anticipation of the 2028 elections.
Chiwenga, a former army general influential in the 2017 military coup that installed Mnangagwa, is perceived as a threat by some party members due to his potential presidential aspirations. Tensions escalated following statements from Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi regarding plans for Mnangagwa to hold power until 2030.
Within Zanu PF, there are indications that certain factions see Chiwenga as a significant political adversary. Allegations suggest orchestrated efforts to neutralize him through party structures and strategic government appointments, including proposals to replace him with benefactor Kudakwashe Tagwirei. Reports indicate that “plans are already underway to co-opt Tagwirei into the centre of power.”
However, Chiwenga’s loyalists within the security and party sectors have resisted these efforts, reflecting the complexities of internal party dynamics. The recent reorganization of government ministries, where Chiwenga retained his Vice Presidency while being made Minister of Health, is perceived as a tactic to diminish his influence within the party.
Political analysts view these developments as manifestations of escalating divisions within Zanu PF, suggesting uncertainty regarding future leadership. A political expert stated, “This battle is far from over. Chiwenga still commands significant support within the military, and any attempt to remove him will not be easy.”
Opposition factions are capitalizing on the allegations of discord within Zanu PF, interpreting it as a sign of a leadership preoccupied with internal conflicts rather than addressing Zimbabwe’s pressing economic issues. With protests planned for March 31st, the ongoing infighting may pose risks to the country’s stability.
In summary, the internal strife within Zanu PF, particularly regarding Vice President Constantino Chiwenga’s position, underscores a growing factional divide as the party approaches the 2028 elections. The alleged attempts to oust him reflect the complexities of power dynamics, with some leaders viewing him as a political threat. Resistance from Chiwenga’s supporters and developments in government appointments may foreshadow further tensions within the ruling party and its impact on Zimbabwe’s governance.
Original Source: www.thezimbabwemail.com
