Cabinet warning exposes deepening rift in Zanu PF

A stern warning by Virginia Mabiza that senior government officials must support Cabinet decisions or resign has intensified speculation over growing tensions within Zimbabwe's top leadership.

Mabiza's remarks - directed at ministers, deputy ministers and vice-presidents - are widely seen as reinforcing the principle of collective responsibility at a time of heightened political friction, particularly between President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his deputy, Constantino Chiwenga.

She emphasised that members of the executive are both collectively and individually accountable to the President and cannot publicly distance themselves from Cabinet positions once decisions have been adopted.

"Once Cabinet has made a decision, all members are expected to support it. Those who cannot do so have the option to resign," Mabiza said, adding that the President has constitutional authority to dismiss or reassign officials under Section 104.

The warning comes amid ongoing debate over proposed constitutional amendments - including Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 - which have triggered strong public and political reactions.

The Bill, which is yet to be tabled in Parliament, is expected to introduce a range of governance, electoral and tenure-related changes. Among the most contentious issues under discussion are potential adjustments to presidential and parliamentary terms.

Observers say Mabiza's comments reflect growing pressure within government ranks to maintain unity as debate intensifies both inside and outside ruling party structures.

Recent remarks by Chiwenga, in which he referenced a biblical parable about leadership and the risks of overstaying in power, have been interpreted by some analysts as signalling unease within sections of the leadership over the proposed reforms.

While no direct confrontation has been officially acknowledged, the developments point to an increasingly complex political environment as Zimbabwe approaches a critical legislative phase.

Government is also reportedly working on a formal code of conduct for senior officials, in line with Section 106(3) of the Constitution, aimed at strengthening accountability and governance standards within the executive.

Political analysts say the coming months - particularly the handling of the constitutional amendments - will be key in shaping both policy direction and internal dynamics within the country's leadership.