Zanu-PF Women's leader warns against 'spoilers'

Zanu-PF Women's League leader Mabel Chinomona has cautioned party members against actions that could disrupt the ruling party's upcoming annual conference, signaling underlying tensions within Zanu-PF. Speaking at a women's league empowerment programme held at Chiwetu Training Centre in Makoni West, Manicaland, Chinomona addressed hundreds of party supporters, including Information Minister Jenfan Muswere, ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera, Manicaland Provincial Chairperson Tawanda Mukodza, and Provincial Affairs Minister Misheck Mugadza.

Chinomona emphasized the need for unity as the party prepares for its 22nd annual national people's conference scheduled to take place at the Mutare Polytechnic Pavilion Grounds from October 13 to 18. "We don't want things which are not good; please we don't want people who are destroying our party. Don't destroy your own party," she said.

She added that she was prepared to suspend members spreading falsehoods in the lead-up to the conference, reinforcing her authority as the women's league leader. The warnings come amid reported tensions over a push by some party loyalists to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa's tenure beyond the constitutional two-term limit, with his current term set to expire in 2028 and efforts underway to extend it to 2030.

Chinomona's remarks evoke memories of the 2004 Tsholotsho Declaration, a controversial attempt to position Mnangagwa as Vice-President ahead of Joyce Mujuru, which led to the suspension of several provincial leaders, including Chinomona herself and current Speaker of Parliament, Jacob Mudenda, who now serves as Zanu-PF Secretary-General.

At the same event, Muswere expressed support for Mnangagwa, highlighting the empowerment initiatives at Chiwetu Training Centre aimed at women and youths. Mavetera, who leads the Young Women for ED group, also voiced support for extending Mnangagwa's rule to 2030, praising the President for efforts to empower women.

Provincial Affairs Minister Mugadza encouraged women to actively participate in empowerment projects such as irrigation schemes, poultry farming, and sewing, and announced that funds had been raised to establish a rehabilitation centre in Manicaland.

The event underscored both the party's focus on women's empowerment and the ongoing political maneuvering ahead of the party's annual conference in Mutare.