'Rich Gang' hijacks Mnangagwa's Zanu-PF

Loyalty to President Emmerson Mnangagwa seems to be waning among some of his long-time supporters, as tensions within Zanu-PF rise with allegations of factionalism, betrayal, and a shifting power balance within the ruling party.

In 2017, prominent figures like Godfrey Gomwe stood firm in declaring their undying loyalty to Mnangagwa after his expulsion as Vice-President, supporting his rise to power during the ouster of the late former President Robert Mugabe. At a press conference held at the Media Centre, Gomwe and other loyalists vowed to "stand with President Emmerson Mnangagwa until our last breath."

However, in recent months, cracks have emerged within the ruling party, with frustrations growing among those who had backed Mnangagwa's rise. Allegations of a factional group within the party, reportedly known as the "Rich Gang," have surfaced. This group, accused of gaining influence within Zanu-PF, is believed to be sidelining Mnangagwa's original loyalists, fueling accusations of betrayal and neglect.

Sources within the party have claimed that loyalists like Gomwe and Kudakwashe Damson, both from Harare's party structures, have been slapped with prohibition orders, further exacerbating tensions. "Those who stood with ED before he became President are feeling sidelined, neglected, betrayed and left to suffer while the mafikizolo [newcomers] pull the strings and take credit," an insider stated.

The "Rich Gang" has been accused of prioritizing their own interests and inflaming factionalism within the party. "There is a dark shadow working to frustrate Mnangagwa's loyalists and it's creating divisions that could destabilise the party," the source added.

In a WhatsApp group named Dare Rezvoto, which boasts over 1,000 active members, Jones Musara, the national chairperson of Varakashi 4ED, reflected on the situation, stating, "Two terms dzaBaba vedu VaMnangagwa dzichakaropera maloyalist achingochema kuti mugwazo hauna kuzowanika." (Our loyalty will be lost if we don't work together.) Musara also criticized former supporters, alleging that they had failed to support each other and had instead focused on individual success.

The situation is becoming increasingly tense, and critics are questioning the fate of those who once pledged unwavering support for Mnangagwa. "Where are they now?" is a question many are asking as the rift within the party grows, potentially threatening its unity ahead of future elections. As internal power struggles intensify, the president's authority is being overshadowed by infighting within the party ranks.

Despite these concerns, Zanu-PF's director of information, Farai Marapira, maintains that the party remains united. "The party cannot be aware of lies created by our detractors," Marapira said in a statement on Saturday. "The party is united and focused to ensure that the President's vision 2030 is achieved."

Meanwhile, reports have emerged that another of Mnangagwa's loyalists, Tendayi Zinyama, widely known as Mfecane, is facing legal troubles. Zinyama, a prominent figure within the party, is reportedly being taken to court over unpaid rental arrears amounting to US$1,090 at a Bulawayo premises. According to a summons dated December 12, 2024, Zinyama has been given 14 days to settle the bill or risk eviction and further court action.

As the internal struggles within Zanu-PF continue to unfold, the loyalty and unity of the party remain in question, with many watching to see whether Mnangagwa can overcome the factionalism and preserve his grip on power.