Tungwarara defiant amid donation row

ZANU PF Central Committee member and presidential adviser Paul Tungwarara has dismissed criticism over his recent high-profile donations, insisting he remains focused on mobilising support for the ruling party despite growing backlash from within its ranks.

Speaking to *The Standard* at Tanganda Primary School in Ward 6, Chipinge Central constituency, Tungwarara said he would not be distracted by critics and maintained that his actions were aimed at strengthening ZANU PF.

"We are not going to listen to criticism and I am going to stay focused. As the adviser to the President and Central Committee member, my duty is to make those who are lost come and join ZANU PF," Tungwarara said.

"This is part of mobilisation, and sometimes you can be generous so that these people have a good taste of ZANU PF.

"I am not moved by the criticism because, at the end of the day, the goal is to bring everyone to ZANU PF and support the works of President Mnangagwa."

Tungwarara has faced sustained criticism from some ZANU PF supporters and online party activists, commonly known as *Varakashi*, following his decision to donate a Toyota Land Cruiser and US$200,000 to political activist Rutendo Matinyarare.

Matinyarare, once regarded as a loyal supporter of ZANU PF, later became an outspoken critic of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, the First Family and businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei.

Political observers have suggested the donation may have been intended to reconcile Matinyarare with the ruling party following his criticism of the proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3).

The gesture has exposed growing tensions within ZANU PF, particularly as internal debate continues over proposals that could extend President Mnangagwa's tenure to 2030 through Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3.

The party's Youth League, led by Deputy Secretary John Paradza, recently called for an investigation into the donation and demanded that Matinyarare surrender both the vehicle and the cash to the police.

Youth Minister Tino Machakaire also weighed into the controversy, warning that "ZANU PF is not for sale" and saying those operating outside established party structures would face action.

The donation has also been interpreted by some analysts as reflecting broader factional dynamics within the ruling party, amid continued speculation over future succession.

Tungwarara has previously made remarks that some political observers interpreted as veiled criticism of businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei, who has been mentioned in political circles as a possible future contender for national leadership.

However, Tungwarara dismissed suggestions of any personal differences with Tagwirei.

He said the two businessmen enjoyed a cordial relationship and insisted the controversy would not affect his work within the party.

Tungwarara said his philanthropic activities were inspired by President Mnangagwa's leadership style.

"We are copying from Mnangagwa's generosity. He gives and is a farmer, and I am also a farmer doing my best," he said.

He also praised the recently held National Cell Day programme, describing it as an important exercise in strengthening the ruling party's grassroots structures.

"This National Cell Day is important because we know our numbers and where we stand as a party," he said.

"Because of this gathering, we are going to motivate people from outside ZANU PF to come and join the party."

Tungwarara reaffirmed his support for Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, saying he remained committed to the party's programmes and mobilisation efforts.

The controversy surrounding his donations has nevertheless highlighted growing debate within ZANU PF over the role of wealthy benefactors, internal party structures and succession politics as the ruling party prepares for its next political chapter.