Zanu-PF suspends 16 members for supporting independent candidates

Sixteen Zanu-PF members have been suspended for five years after being found guilty of supporting independent candidates during the 2023 National Assembly and local authority elections.

Fifteen of the suspended members are from Masvingo province, while the sixteenth is from Manicaland. The sanctions were detailed in the Central Committee report presented by President Emmerson Mnangagwa at the party's 21st National People's Conference in Bulawayo last month.

President Mnangagwa, Zanu-PF's First Secretary, has previously emphasized that the party upholds discipline and adherence to its regulations.

Suspended Members

The suspended members from Masvingo are Gracious Mapurisa, Jainos Mudonhi, Blessing Hwititi, Wilson Hwafa, Rebecca Matanga, Wellington Hove, Josiel Gumbo, Tavaona Dube, Chamunorwa Ndlela, Simbarashe Pen, Nomsa Masaga, Godknows Moyo, Antalia Ngwenya, Silandekani Khalamesi, and Hlamulo. From Manicaland, Batsirai Pemheni was suspended.

Upholding Party Discipline

Zanu-PF national chairperson Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri highlighted that the suspensions were in line with the party's constitutional provisions, which mandate disciplinary measures for those who flout its rules.

"Routine meetings with provincial chairpersons were conducted to monitor grassroots developments. These discussions covered the state of the party, the economy, security, and preparations for by-elections," Muchinguri-Kashiri stated in her briefing.

Independent Candidates in 2023

The 2023 harmonised elections saw several Zanu-PF members contesting as independent candidates. Those who ran for National Assembly seats independently, and are no longer affiliated with Zanu-PF, include:

- Thomas Munjoma (Mutare West)
- Zivanai Peter Musanhu (Mt Darwin West)
- Eunice Mangwende (Murewa North)
- George Vhengere (Gutu East)
- Tafadzwa Shumba (Mwenezi West)
- Jeremiah Ndlukuwani (Gokwe Chireya)
- Siphathisiwe Mathema (Nkayi North)

None of the independents were successful in their bids.

Party's Gains in By-Elections

Despite these internal challenges, Zanu-PF's Central Committee report praised the party's performance in by-elections held after the harmonised elections.

"The party achieved impressive victories in Binga, an area historically dominated by the opposition. This demonstrates Zanu-PF's ability to penetrate new territories and consolidate its influence," the report noted.

With a focus on discipline and strategic outreach, the party is positioning itself for continued growth and strength ahead of future electoral contests.