Zanu-PF whips affiliates into line

Zanu-PF has launched a comprehensive vetting and interview process for the leadership of its 181 affiliated groups, a move aimed at reinforcing order and transparency within the ruling party.

The process, which began yesterday, comes amid reports that some affiliates were being drawn into factional disputes over President Emmerson Mnangagwa's succession. Certain groups have also been accused of misusing Presidential empowerment funds overseen by Mnangagwa's special investment adviser, Paul Tungwarara.

Chairpersons and secretary-generals of the affiliates are the focus of the vetting, which will examine how they assumed leadership, whether they were planted by opposition actors, and if they understand party guidelines. Membership records and recruitment methods will also be scrutinized. The vetting exercise is expected to conclude on Saturday after four days of intensive review.

Munyaradzi Machacha, head of Zanu-PF's commissariat department, confirmed the meetings but referred questions to politburo secretary for security Lovemore Matuke, who is currently on leave until February 11. The commissariat has temporarily suspended empowerment programmes overseen by affiliates as part of efforts to increase transparency, with plans to resume once the review is complete.

The vetting exercise follows a resolution passed at the party's annual conference in Mutare last year, which called for the full integration of affiliates into the party structure. Among those set for review are groups such as Vapostori, Vendors, Top Soup, and Contractors for Economic Development. Some affiliates, including the Anti-Presidential Criticism vigilante grouping, have faced criticism for allegedly abusing the party's name and the president's reputation.

Party insiders say the initiative is critical for ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned with Zanu-PF's policies and that affiliates operate within established guidelines. "If we manage to engage all 181 affiliates, then no one will be left behind. It is good for the party to involve all stakeholders," a source said.

The review underscores Zanu-PF's focus on strengthening internal governance as it navigates succession debates and oversight of empowerment initiatives.