Zanu-PF clips Tungwarara's wings

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reportedly taken steps to curb the activities of his investment adviser, Paul Tungwarara, following public criticism of political figures that has stirred tensions within Zanu-PF.

The move comes after a controversial rally in Nyanga last weekend, where Tungwarara publicly attacked Kudakwashe Tagwirei, a central committee member and party benefactor, alleging that Tagwirei had sought to influence the President to dismiss Vice-Presidents Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi.

During the rally, held under the banner of an Empowerment Fund, Tungwarara also distributed cash to two Zanu-PF constituencies in Manicaland, further raising eyebrows among senior party figures.

A source close to the President told news outlets that Mnangagwa was "not amused" by Tungwarara's remarks, which have drawn criticism from within the party. Deputy National Youth League Commissar Taurai Kandishaya questioned Tungwarara's mandate, noting that his official role is limited to serving as Presidential Investment Adviser to the United Arab Emirates.

"Manicaland is not part of the UAE. Is it?" Kandishaya asked, noting that Tungwarara's involvement in domestic political mobilisation appeared outside his remit.

Tungwarara's fiery address, in which he emphasised that leadership is defined by character rather than wealth, was widely interpreted as a direct challenge to Tagwirei's growing influence. His comments drew applause from supporters, including Zanu-PF politburo member Christopher Mutsvangwa, a known critic of Tagwirei.

Former Norton legislator Temba Mliswa warned that Tungwarara could be caught in ongoing factional battles within the ruling party. He suggested Tungwarara's actions may have been influenced by figures aligned with Vice-President Chiwenga's faction, turning the adviser into a pawn in internal power struggles.

The tensions unfold against the backdrop of succession politics within Zanu-PF as President Mnangagwa's 2028 term limit approaches. Reports suggest both Tungwarara and Tagwirei are positioning themselves politically, while Chiwenga remains a leading contender in the party's power calculus.

In response to escalating internal conflicts, Zanu-PF Secretary for Security Lovemore Matuke issued a strong directive urging members to cease public attacks and to uphold party unity and discipline.

"We are deeply concerned by the disturbing developments we are witnessing within our party, where senior leaders and ordinary members alike are openly attacking one another at public rallies and across social media platforms," Matuke said.

He reminded members that Zanu-PF's long-standing values are based on unity, respect, and collective responsibility, warning that airing internal disputes publicly damages the party's reputation.

"Each of us, whether a senior leader or an ordinary card-carrying member, must remember that we are one family. Families do not insult one another in public, nor do they tear each other apart before the world," he said.

Matuke appealed to all party members to resolve differences internally, using established structures such as the youth wing, main wing, and trusted elders. He also called on members to remain united behind President Mnangagwa's leadership as Zimbabwe pursues Vision 2030.

"Those who choose to divide us choose the wrong path, because only together can we fulfil the mission of the revolution and build a better Zimbabwe for generations to come," Matuke said.

The developments highlight growing factional fault lines within Zanu-PF, as the ruling party seeks to maintain unity amid internal jockeying ahead of the next presidential succession cycle.