Why Mutodi attacked Guvamatanga

When Hon. Advocate Dr. Energy Mutodi goes quiet, it often signals that his financial needs are met and his appetite for drama temporarily subdued. But when the money runs thin, Mutodi resurfaces - loud, combative, and ready to stir controversy. His latest outburst against Finance Ministry Permanent Secretary George Guvamatanga fits squarely into this long-established pattern.

The political grapevine has been buzzing with speculation over Mutodi's sudden hostility. But insiders suggest this is less about Guvamatanga personally and more about Mutodi's recurring struggle with entitlement and political recklessness.

After clawing his way into Masvingo's provincial structures, Mutodi fought for a portfolio committee chairmanship in Parliament. Once appointed, he shocked colleagues by demanding ministerial-level perks: a luxury vehicle, allowances, and benefits equivalent to cabinet status.

His battle with Treasury began with Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube, who reportedly dismissed Mutodi's demands. Mutodi then redirected his frustration toward Guvamatanga, the technocrat defending Treasury's austerity measures.

Sources say Guvamatanga firmly told Mutodi that national priorities - such as infrastructure, energy, and healthcare - took precedence over personal benefits. Treasury had cut unnecessary spending, leaving no room for Mutodi's expectations. This rejection allegedly triggered his smear campaign.

Mutodi amplified unsubstantiated rumours - initially circulated by Blessed Geza - accusing Guvamatanga of corruption. He repeated these claims under the guise of parliamentary oversight, weaponizing his committee position to lend weight to gossip.

This isn't Mutodi's first clash with senior officials. He previously targeted Chief Secretary to the President Dr. Martin Rushwaya, aggressively lobbying for a benefits package after his dismissal as Deputy Minister. Former Reserve Bank Governor John Mangudya endured similar harassment, while current Governor John Mushayavanhu has reportedly kept his distance.

Mutodi's infamous letter to the late Lt. General SB Moyo - widely seen as disrespectful - sealed his fate in the Information Ministry. His critics argue that his erratic behaviour transcends politics, citing allegations of mental instability, failed marriages, ritual controversies, and a trail of personal scandals.

Even ZANU PF has struggled to contain him. Mashonaland East province expelled him for gross indiscipline and disrespect toward senior figures like Sydney Sekeramayi. Now, Masvingo province bears the burden of managing his disruptive presence in Parliament.

Mutodi's attacks on Guvamatanga reflect a dangerous pattern: when denied access to privileges, he turns vindictive, weaponizes gossip, and destabilizes institutions. The ruling party must decide whether to continue tolerating this cyclical chaos or draw a line.

As Zimbabwe faces urgent economic and social challenges, leaders who thrive on noise, blackmail, and personal vendettas are distractions the nation can ill afford. Mutodi's latest crusade is not about reform - it's about entitlement denied.

The question is no longer why Mutodi attacked Guvamatanga. The real question is why Zimbabwe continues to indulge him. Masvingo Province must act decisively. As this article goes to press, Mutodi is reportedly plotting an attack on Speaker Jacob Mudenda, arguing that Mudenda should become a full-time party employee and vacate his parliamentary role - hoping to position himself as the next Speaker.