Tagwirei tipped for Zanu-PF politburo

Zimbabwean businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei is reportedly positioning himself for a possible appointment into the ZANU-PF politburo, as internal succession dynamics within the ruling party intensify.

Sources say Tagwirei, who was recently co-opted into the party's central committee, is lobbying for elevation to the politburo — a move seen as a strategic step toward greater influence within the party's top decision-making structures.

The developments come against the backdrop of an ongoing power struggle involving President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his deputy Constantino Chiwenga, who is widely viewed as a leading contender to succeed him.

Insiders say factional battles have intensified, with Chiwenga's camp facing resistance from rival groups as multiple figures emerge in the succession matrix. Among those being mentioned are Tagwirei, retired General Phillip Valerio Sibanda, and Mnangagwa's son, Emmerson Mnangagwa Jr, who is reportedly gaining backing from sections of the party's youth league.

According to party sources, Tagwirei's strategy involves gradually rising through party ranks — from the central committee to the politburo — before potentially seeking a Cabinet position, which could serve as a platform for a future presidential bid.

"These are calculated moves ahead of next year's congress, which will be decisive," a senior party official said, adding that positioning within the politburo would expose Tagwirei to the inner workings of party leadership.

The succession contest is further complicated by ongoing efforts to amend the Constitution under the "ED2030" agenda, which seeks to extend President Mnangagwa's tenure beyond the current 2028 limit. Proposed changes could also alter the presidential election system, potentially shifting to parliamentary selection.

Tagwirei has previously dismissed speculation about presidential ambitions, describing such claims as "foolish" and insisting there is "no vacancy" in the presidency. He has publicly portrayed himself as a loyal supporter of Mnangagwa.

However, analysts interpret his growing political visibility — after years of operating largely behind the scenes as a financier — as a sign of a possible transition into frontline politics.

While some senior party figures, including spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa, have cautioned against using the party as a vehicle for personal ambition, insiders say internal competition is likely to intensify as the next congress approaches.