Zanu PF divided as Mnangagwa expels 16 members
Zanu PF, Zimbabwe’s ruling party, has expelled 16 of its members over allegations that they supported independent candidates during the recent elections. This bold move has brought to light the growing divisions within the party, particularly the tensions between President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Vice President Constantino Chiwenga. Many of those expelled are from Masvingo Province, a key region in Zimbabwe’s political landscape, and the decision is being interpreted by some as an attempt by Mnangagwa to consolidate his power.
The expulsions were announced during the 21st ZANU PF National People’s Conference held in Bulawayo last month. Mnangagwa, who is both the President and First Secretary of Zanu PF, presented a detailed report naming the expelled members and outlining the reasons for their removal. These individuals have been banned from participating in any party activities for the next five years. Those expelled from Masvingo Province include Gracious Mapurisa, Jainos Mudonhi, Blessing Hwititi, Wilson Hwafa, Rebecca Matanga, Wellington Hove, Josiel Gumbo, Tavaona Dube, Chamunorwa Ndlela, Simbarashe Pen, Nomsa Masaga, Godknows Moyo, Antalia Ngwenya, Silandekani Khalamesi, and Hlamulo. Additionally, Batsirai Pemheni from Manicaland Province was also expelled.
The decision came after these members contested elections as independent candidates for both National Assembly and local authority positions. Their choice to run independently violated Zanu PF’s strict rule against supporting candidates who are not officially endorsed by the party. Their expulsion is seen as automatic under the party’s policies. Some prominent figures among them include Thomas Munjoma from Mutare West, Zivanai Peter Musanhu from Mt Darwin West, Eunice Mangwende from Murewa North, George Vhengere from Gutu East, Tafadzwa Shumba from Mwenezi West, Jeremiah Ndlukuwani from Gokwe Chireya, and Siphathisiwe Mathema from Nkayi North.
This wave of expulsions reflects more than just internal disciplinary actions; it reveals deeper political battles within the party. Analysts suggest that Mnangagwa’s move targets individuals who are believed to be aligned with Chiwenga, the Vice President. These expulsions are being viewed as part of Mnangagwa’s broader effort to strengthen his grip on power by weakening Chiwenga’s support base. Chiwenga has reportedly been working quietly to build his own faction within the party, and this growing rivalry is becoming increasingly difficult to contain.
Masvingo Province, which has a history of being a hotspot for factionalism within Zanu PF, has become the focal point of these recent events. The fact that most of those expelled are from this region highlights its strategic importance in the ongoing power struggle. Observers believe this decision could deepen the divide between the factions loyal to Mnangagwa and those supporting Chiwenga. To Chiwenga’s allies, these expulsions may seem like a deliberate attack on their group, potentially fueling further discord.
The timing of the expulsions is also telling. Announced shortly after the party’s national conference, they suggest Mnangagwa is asserting his authority ahead of Zanu PF’s upcoming elective congress. This congress is expected to play a critical role in shaping the future leadership dynamics of the party.
The expulsion of these 16 members is not just about enforcing party rules. It also shines a light on the fierce competition for control within Zanu PF. With leadership changes potentially on the horizon, the actions taken now could have lasting consequences for the party’s unity and direction.
Source: https://www.zimeye.net/2024/11/15/mnangagwa-fires-16-members/
