Tagwirei praised as patriotic businessman amid ZANU PF tensions

Controversial businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei has been described as one of the most patriotic figures in Zimbabwe for his financial and material support to ZANU PF, according to political commentator Snowball Tongogara.

Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Tongogara praised Tagwirei's contributions to the ruling party, calling him a “revolutionary business cadre” committed to the party's ideals.

"This is another important day where we learn the importance of having patriotic and revolutionary business cadres like Dr Tagwirei. He has shown us countless times that he is committed to the ZANU PF revolutionary ideas," Tongogara posted.

"Guided by the wise leadership of President ED Mnangagwa, Dr Tagwirei has played a crucial role in purchasing cars for the central committee members. This is leadership in action."

The praise comes amid growing tensions within ZANU PF, where Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has publicly condemned certain businessmen in the party for amassing wealth through alleged corruption, referring to them as Zvigananda - a term implying greed and exploitation.

Chiwenga has warned that a time will come when such individuals will be held accountable.

Despite these internal rifts, leaked documents and insider accounts suggest that many controversial business figures loyal to ZANU PF continue to enjoy protection from the highest offices. Sources claim that efforts by law enforcement and the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) to investigate or arrest them have been routinely obstructed.

Tagwirei, often linked to high-level political and economic dealings, remains a polarising figure - hailed by some as a benefactor and condemned by others as emblematic of elite impunity.