Manicaland Zanu-PF defies national directive, stands by Tungwarara

ZANU PF's Manicaland Province has reaffirmed its backing for the co‑option of Presidential Advisor Dr Paul Tungwarara into the party's Central Committee, despite a recent directive from National Political Commissar Munyaradzi Machacha to annul the appointment.

In a circular issued on Thursday, Machacha declared the December 7 co‑option "nullified with immediate effect," citing procedural breaches, including the requirement that any replacement should come from the same administrative district as the outgoing member.

Senior provincial officials, however, maintained that their position remains unchanged. "Dr Tungwarara was endorsed by the Provincial Coordinating Committee and as Manicaland, we still regard him as our most capable and united choice. That remains our official stance," one senior executive told the press.

Another high-ranking provincial official described the national directive as premature, stating, "We respect the Commissariat, yes, but the province has the right to recommend someone who commands respect and support on the ground. Dr Tungwarara is that person. The people of Manicaland spoke, and we will not pretend otherwise."

A third provincial leader referred to the commissariat's decision as a misunderstanding requiring dialogue. "Manicaland is clear: Dr Tungwarara is still our preferred candidate. We believe this can be resolved internally without undermining the will of the province," he said.

The province is now expected to engage national leadership to resolve the impasse, highlighting growing tensions between ZAnu-PF's provincial structures and central authorities over candidate selection and procedural adherence. Talks are anticipated as both sides prepare to find a resolution.