Zanu PF intensifies Gamatox purges

The push to flush out all former vice-president Joice Mujuru's loyalists and perceived supporters, who are in influential positions in civil service, military, parastatals and other government departments has intensified in a bid to completely eradicate Mujuru's footprints.

Vice-President Emmerson Mnangagwa's Zanu PF faction is behind the drive.

Among those targeted are in the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF), the Central Intelligence Office (CIO), government ministries and parastatals, as well as the Office of the President and Cabinet.

Air Force of Zimbabwe commander Air Marshal Perence Shiri, Police Commissioner General Augustine Chihuri, Prisons commissioner Paradzai Zimondi and CIO Director General Happyton Bonyongwe, among others are the targets.

Last week, Sport minister Andrew Langa, a senior Mujuru ally, was dismissed from cabinet.

Government officials say there are likely to be more casualties as government moves to weedout Mujuru's allies.

Sources said the Mnangagwa's camp wants ZDF commander General Constantine Chiwenga and Zimbabwe National Army commander Lieutenant-General Phillip Valerio Sibanda to stay put.

Officials say the Mnangagwa camp also wants the intelligence department to be shaken up.

"The top hierarchy at Chaminuka building (CIO headquarters) and most of all the provincial heads were and are still working for Gamatox.