Door closed for Chiwenga faction

Zanu-PF national spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa has declared that there will be no leadership contest to replace President Emmerson Mnangagwa before 2030, warning party members against engaging in factional succession politics.

Speaking at a press briefing at the party's headquarters, Mutsvangwa said Zanu-PF had already resolved that Mnangagwa's tenure should extend to 2030, effectively shutting down any immediate leadership ambitions.

"It is expressed in the resolution of the party that the President's rule must extend to 2030," he said.

"So, if you have been meeting as a faction or trying to take over from him, just wait for 2030. It will come. It will not be removed from the calendar of Zimbabwe."

Mnangagwa is facing growing resistance from sections of war veterans, retired military generals and some party members over the proposed Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill (CAB3), which seeks to extend his term of office beyond 2028.

The debate has intensified speculation over succession, with Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga widely viewed as a potential successor ahead of the 2028 general elections.

However, Mutsvangwa dismissed any immediate transition prospects, urging those with presidential ambitions to remain patient.

"Just make sure you keep your health and if you are a member of the party, maintain your standing with the membership in good condition, so that your candidacy in 2030 can enjoy the support it should," he said.

In remarks seen as directed at dissenting voices within the party and former liberation war figures, Mutsvangwa warned against publicly opposing the proposed term extension.

"But don't try to make noise now, because that door is going to be closed," he added.

The push to extend Mnangagwa's rule has exposed divisions within Zanu-PF, with reports that party members have been pressured to support CAB3 during public consultations or face disciplinary action.

Despite the controversy, Mutsvangwa said the party was deliberately keeping a low profile on the matter, allowing formal parliamentary processes to take the lead.

"We have not wanted, as a party, to talk too much about CAB3," he said.

"We have a team, our advisory department, our administrative department. They are part of Parliament's consultations. We respect those consultations, so we are participating at that level."

Zanu-PF is expected to hold its elective congress next year, though Mnangagwa — like former President Robert Mugabe — has not publicly named a successor.

Mugabe was removed from power in 2017 following a military intervention, despite efforts by his allies to extend his rule amid concerns over his age and health.

The unfolding debate around CAB3 is likely to shape both the party's internal dynamics and Zimbabwe's broader political landscape in the lead-up to the next elections.