Chiwenga In Trouble As Mnangagwa Cuts Conference Delegates 

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga finds himself in a precarious position after President Emmerson Mnangagwa drastically reduced the number of delegates attending the upcoming ZANU-PF Annual National People’s Conference.

The move has sparked speculation about the growing tensions within the ruling party, particularly concerning the power struggle between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga.

The conference, traditionally a key event for the party to strategize and mobilize support ahead of major elections, will see fewer participants this year, with Mnangagwa citing cost-cutting measures and the need for a streamlined agenda as reasons for the reduction. However, political analysts believe that the decision might have deeper implications, with some interpreting it as a strategic move by Mnangagwa to weaken Chiwenga’s influence within the party. “There’s no doubt that the reduction in delegates is a tactical move by Mnangagwa to assert control and limit Chiwenga’s support base,” said a senior political analyst.

Chiwenga, a former army general who played a key role in the ousting of former President Robert Mugabe in 2017, has long been viewed as a potential rival to Mnangagwa. Since the coup, there have been numerous reports of factionalism within ZANU-PF, with Chiwenga leading a faction that is at odds with Mnangagwa’s loyalists. The reduced number of conference attendees, particularly those from Chiwenga’s strongholds, could diminish his ability to rally support during the event.

Insiders suggest that Mnangagwa’s move to cut the delegate list is part of a broader effort to solidify his grip on power ahead of the 2024 elections. “Mnangagwa is making sure there are no surprises at the conference. By limiting Chiwenga’s influence, he is safeguarding his political future,” said one source close to the party leadership. – ZimEye