Mliswa dismisses reports that he fled Zimbabwe for SA

Outspoken former legislator Temba Mliswa has dismissed reports that he fled Zimbabwe for South Africa amid rising political tensions, insisting that his recent trip was strictly business-related.

Writing to his X (formerly Twitter) account, Mliswa clarified that he had travelled to South Africa to meet with Technogym owners Tony and Kevin Payne in pursuit of a new fitness partnership.

"Ndakuremerai now you are cooking stories about fleeing. Why flee when I have committed no crime? My SA visit was for business with Technogym owned by Tony & Kevin Payne. What a success it was. As a fitness freak I'm seeking to bring the pride of Africa to Zim in a new partnership," Mliswa wrote.

Ndakuremerai now you are cooking stories about fleeing. Why flee when I have committed no crime? My SA visit was for business with Technogym owned by Tony& Kevin Payne.What a success it was. As a fitness freak I'm seeking to bring the pride of Africa to Zim in a new partnership. pic.twitter.com/c3oGi6uIyJ

— Sabhuku Temba P. Mliswa (@TembaMliswa) October 3, 2025

The development comes as Mliswa continues to dominate headlines following his controversial declaration that businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei is President Emmerson Mnangagwa's natural successor — a statement that appeared to sideline Vice President Constantino Chiwenga. In a leaked phone conversation with businessman Agrippa "Bopela" Masiyakurima, Mliswa alleged that Chiwenga remains heavily influenced by his wife, Miniyothabo Baloyi, and has overestimated his waning military influence.

While once a fierce critic of Tagwirei, Mliswa defended his shift in position, saying he has "no permanent enemies, only permanent interests." He added that succession in Zanu-PF would likely favour Tagwirei, whom Mnangagwa trusts to protect his political and economic legacy.

Mliswa also accused Chiwenga of corruption and of pursuing personal vendettas, including fallout with businessman Wicknell Chivayo over unfulfilled wedding contributions. He claimed Chivayo was pressured to provide six Rolls Royces and US$250,000 for Chiwenga's wedding, alongside other financial gifts, with a disputed US$150,000 reportedly souring relations.

Against this backdrop, Mliswa's rural homestead in Shurugwi was allegedly torched by unknown assailants early Wednesday morning, destroying property worth up to US$200,000. At the time of the fire, Mliswa, who also serves as headman of Mliswa Village, was away. A maid and two other occupants reported hearing a vehicle nearby before discovering the blaze, which consumed one of the huts at the homestead.

In response, Mliswa again turned to X, stating: "I have always known that corruption fights back and am prepared for everything. Last night they sneaked and burnt my house in Shurugwi all because I asked for accountability and transparency. Thank God no one was hurt."

The incident comes a week after Mliswa accused Chiwenga of shielding corrupt practices while working to undermine Mnangagwa's leadership. Police have since opened investigations into the fire.

The events have further fuelled speculation over Zanu-PF's succession battle, intensifying scrutiny on the shifting balance of power between Mnangagwa's allies and the Chiwenga camp.