Moto PaZanu PF Head-OfficeZanu PF National Chairperson Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri has stepped in to mediate the escalating power struggle between President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his deputy, Constantino Chiwenga.
The two leaders are locked in a fierce battle over the control of the party beyond 2028.She also raised concerns about the handling of disciplinary cases, noting that some Provincial Disciplinary Committees (PDCs) were failing to exercise due diligence.
Warning against unresolved primary election disputes and the misuse of disciplinary processes for personal gain, she stated:
“Some members are using government resources to campaign in constituencies where there are duly elected MPs. This behavior will not be tolerated,” she said, adding that a circular would be issued to address these issues.
She also highlighted the need to empower women and veterans of the liberation struggle through self-help economic projects.It is shameful for any leader to engage in primitive and barbaric political bickering that divides the party.
Such behavior only benefits opposition forces,” she said.
She commended the party’s Information and Publicity Department for developing a robust social media policy to curb the misuse of online platforms by members.
Muchinguri-Kashiri urged party leaders to focus on highlighting the party’s achievements and fulfilling its promises to the electorate to maintain confidence and support.
She emphasized that Mnangagwa, as the party’s First Secretary, remains the face of Zanu PF, warning that any member found denigrating him would face disciplinary action.
“Our President and the entire Presidium must be protected by shunning factionalism, which is a creation of self-serving individuals. This behavior poses a national security risk,” she said.
The indaba was attended by Politburo members, Central Committee members, Ministers of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, provincial chairpersons, and other senior party officials.
Muchinguri reiterated the importance of discipline and adherence to party protocols, stressing that unity is crucial for achieving Zanu PF’s long-term objectives.
“We cannot afford indiscipline, distractions, or lethargy. Let us draw inspiration from our party’s rich history and the sacrifices of our forebearers,” she said.They had previously reached a verbal agreement that Chiwenga would take over from Mnangagwa after his second term.
However, Mnangagwa has since reneged on this arrangement and is now maneuvering to extend his rule beyond the constitutional mandate.
Mnangagwa has been actively rallying his support base to portray him as a near-divine figure, with loyalists pushing for constitutional amendments that would allow him to remain in power.
This has heightened tensions within the ruling party, leading to internal divisions.
Speaking at a special State of the Party indaba held at the Zanu PF headquarters in Harare Thursday, Muchinguri-Kashiri acknowledged that the feud has significantly weakened party cohesion."On the 21st National People`s Conference Resolutions Number 1, Party leadership observed, with dismay, the abuse of the resolution and the weaponization of the 2030 slogan.
"The resolution is a collective outcome which cannot be monopolized by a few individuals for personal gains and glory. Those few individuals are now exploiting the resolution and the 2030 slogan to provoke discord and petty displinary cases. this must stop forthwith," said National Chairman Cde O.C.Z Muchinguri-Kashiri.
