Zanu-PF lifts prohibition order against Chiredzi West MP

ZANU PF has lifted the prohibition order imposed on Chiredzi West legislator Darlington Chiwa, suspending disciplinary proceedings against him until the conclusion of court proceedings relating to allegations of Constituency Development Fund (CDF) misuse and gross misconduct.

In a letter dated July 14, 2026, addressed to Chiwa and signed by ZANU PF Secretary General Advocate Jacob Mudenda, the ruling party said it had decided to defer its internal disciplinary process because the matter overlaps with ongoing judicial proceedings.

The letter stated that Chiwa had been charged by the Masvingo Provincial Disciplinary Committee over allegations of misusing Constituency Development Funds and engaging in gross misconduct.

"This letter serves to notify you that you were charged by the Masvingo Provincial Disciplinary Committee with multiple charges relating to the alleged misuse of Constituency Development Funds (CDF) and gross misconduct," reads part of the letter.

According to the correspondence, the decision to suspend the disciplinary process was endorsed by the party's Politburo during its 393rd Ordinary Session held on May 27, 2026.

"However, sitting at its 393rd Ordinary Session of the Politburo held on 27th May 2026, the Politburo upheld the decision by the National Disciplinary Committee (NDC) and noted that the matter is currently before the courts and involves issues that intersect with statutory oversight and criminal accountability mechanisms.

"In light of the pending judicial processes, the determination of the matter was deferred until the court proceedings have been concluded," the letter states.

The decision provides temporary relief for Chiwa, who had been prohibited from convening meetings and carrying out political activities in Chiredzi West after the party issued a prohibition order against him.

The prohibition followed complaints lodged with the ZANU PF Masvingo Provincial Executive alleging that the legislator had misused Constituency Development Fund allocations.

At the time, Masvingo provincial chairperson Robson Mavhenyengwa confirmed that the party had opened investigations into the allegations, saying all party representatives entrusted with public responsibilities must remain accountable.

"Yes, Cde Chiwa was issued a prohibition order over a matter to do with use of CDF funds. We are going to carry out investigations into the allegations raised against him," Mavhenyengwa said.

The internal disciplinary matter will now remain on hold pending the outcome of the court proceedings, after which the party is expected to determine whether to proceed with its own disciplinary action.