Tungwarara dismisses rift claims, affirms loyalty to Tagwirei

Presidential Special Investment Advisor Paul Tungwarara has publicly dismissed reports of a fallout between himself and businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei, describing the alleged rift as "imaginary" and politically motivated.

In a statement issued in Harare on February 14, Tungwarara said there was no conflict between him and Tagwirei, whom he referred to as his mentor and brother.

"Please take note that there are people going around trying to create an imaginary conflict between my mentor, Dr. Kudakwashe Tagwirei, and myself. This supposed fight does not exist," he said.

"I want to set the record straight: Dr. Kudakwashe Tagwirei has never done anything wrong to me. In fact, he has helped me to become who I am today. I hold nothing against my brother, and I cannot continue to allow these false rumors to spread."

Tungwarara also addressed speculation surrounding the suspension of the Presidential Empowerment Fund programmes, distancing Tagwirei from any responsibility for the delay.

"Frankly, Dr. Tagwirei is not responsible for the hold-up of the Presidential Empowerment Fund Programs. The program was put on hold by the party to ensure that proper monitoring structures are in place, to identify who has benefited and who may have abused the funds," he said.

He added that he was not in competition with anyone and rejected claims that he was at odds with Tagwirei.

"I want the nation to know that I am not in competition with anyone, and certainly not with Dr. Tagwirei, whom I regard as my mentor," Tungwarara said.

The advisor warned that some individuals were exploiting the alleged rift for personal gain.

"There are people who are using divide-and-rule tactics in order to benefit from this imagined conflict. I urge these individuals to be honest and to ask for favors directly, instead of spreading falsehoods that I am fighting my brother," he said.

He further disassociated himself from individuals attacking Tagwirei in his name.

"Furthermore, there are those who are attacking Dr. Tagwirei in my name, thinking they can gain favors from me. I want to make it clear that I do not recognize these people, nor do I know them."

Tungwarara concluded by aligning himself with President Emmerson Mnangagwa's message of unity.

"Our able leader, President E.D. Mnangagwa, always preaches unity and kubatana (togetherness). I stand by that call for unity," he said.