Zanu PF seizes official’s car over opposing Mnangagwa’s term extension
Zanu PF Manicaland province has confiscated a party-issued Ford Ranger vehicle from Central Committee member Moses Gutu after he publicly opposed plans to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s tenure beyond 2028.
Gutu, who hails from Nyanga, is also facing suspension after the party’s Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) accused him of misconduct and insubordination for openly challenging party resolutions.
The decision was reached during a PEC meeting held in Mutare on Monday, with provincial commissar Albert Nyakuedzwa confirming that a recommendation for Gutu’s suspension had been forwarded to the party’s national commissariat.
Gutu is accused of mobilising party structures against Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3), which the provincial leadership says was subsequently enacted into law, and opposing Resolution One, which supports extending Mnangagwa’s presidency beyond 2028.
His public opposition reportedly angered provincial leaders, particularly after the party’s 23rd National People’s Conference in Chinhoyi reaffirmed its support for the proposed extension and resolved to take disciplinary action against dissenting members.
Videos circulating on social media reportedly show Gutu openly criticising the constitutional changes, prompting the provincial leadership to accuse him of undermining party discipline.
Zanu PF provincial transport secretary Stanley Mbawa confirmed that Gutu surrendered the Ford Ranger at the party’s provincial offices on Tuesday.
“He brought the vehicle to the provincial offices on Tuesday. It’s in good condition, due for service. He even signed an affidavit confirming he surrendered it to me on behalf of the party,” Mbawa was quoted as saying.
Nyakuedzwa defended the disciplinary measures, insisting that Zanu PF operates under the principle of democratic centralism and expects members to respect collective decisions.
“Dissent is dealt with internally, not on social media. Members who rebel against conference resolutions risk suspension, expulsion, and losing party benefits — including vehicles,” he said.
Gutu previously faced disciplinary proceedings between 2015 and 2016 while serving as chairperson of the Nyanga Rural District Council.
The Manicaland leadership has reiterated its support for the constitutional changes, arguing that extending Mnangagwa’s tenure would promote political stability, development and continuity.
Gutu’s proposed suspension now awaits consideration by the party’s national leadership. *_-Bulawayo24_*
