Matinyarare fires back at Mliswa amid Constitutional Amendment row

Political commentator Rutendo Benson Matinyarare has fired back at former legislator Temba Mliswa, dismissing personal claims made against him and insisting that the national focus should remain on the debate surrounding Zimbabwe's proposed constitutional amendment.

In a strongly worded statement, Matinyarare said he had initially avoided responding to Mliswa, describing the exchange as a "distraction from the real issue" of constitutional reform. He said he now felt compelled to address what he called "misrepresentations".

Disputing links and introductions 
 
Matinyarare rejected Mliswa's claims that he was introduced to influential figures through him. He said his first contact with government‑linked individuals came through Junior Mnangagwa, son of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, following engagements involving Zimbabwe and the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).

He further claimed that businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei later engaged him on matters related to sanctions and legal processes, including discussions around potential international court action.

Allegations over funding and coordination

Matinyarare alleged that he was promised financial backing for legal efforts linked to sanctions advocacy, but said the support was inconsistent. He also referenced interactions with senior officials, including former Central Intelligence Organisation Director‑General Isaac Moyo, claiming he was advised that Tagwirei would be his primary point of contact.

These claims could not be independently verified.

"Handler" claims and distancing from others

Matinyarare insisted that Tagwirei was the only individual he dealt with on Zimbabwe‑related matters and denied associations with other business figures, including Simon Rudland, beyond limited interactions.

He suggested that attempts to link him to other individuals were meant to discredit his position in the current political debate.

Constitutional amendment at the centre of dispute

Matinyarare reiterated that his stance is rooted in opposition to constitutional amendments being pursued without a referendum, arguing that he should be free to express his views without facing personal attacks.

"I should be allowed to air my views on the amendment without being attacked," he said.

He also warned that he could release evidence to support his claims, stating that he has "all the receipts", and hinted that more details may be included in an upcoming book focusing on sanctions.

The exchange highlights rising tensions among political and business figures as debate intensifies over Constitutional Amendment Bill Number 3. Analysts say the dispute reflects broader divisions over governance, accountability and the handling of sensitive national issues such as sanctions.