Mnangagwa spokesman dismissal rumours gain traction

Unconfirmed reports indicate that President Emmerson Mnangagwa has dismissed his spokesperson, George Charamba, who also serves as Deputy Chief Secretary responsible for Presidential Communications.

The alleged move follows growing calls on social media for Charamba's removal, citing his abrasive communication style and a tendency to stoke controversy.

Reshuffles Spark Speculation

Last week, Chief Secretary to the President Martin Rushwaya announced ministerial reassignments, with July Moyo moving to the Energy Ministry and Edgar Moyo taking over the Labour and Public Service portfolio. The changes marked the beginning of what analysts view as a shake-up within Mnangagwa's inner circle.

Charamba, reportedly "forcibly retired," is said to have retreated to his farm, with sources claiming the Mnangagwa family, including First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa and the President's sons, played a key role in convincing the 82-year-old leader to act.

A Controversial Figure

A former spokesperson for the late President Robert Mugabe, Charamba has been a divisive figure in Zimbabwean politics. His sharp rhetoric has targeted foreign leaders, including former US Ambassador Brian Nichols, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, and ex-Botswana President Ian Khama.

Charamba has also publicly criticized global leaders' groups such as The Elders, which included figures like the late US President Jimmy Carter, former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, and Graca Machel.

His online clashes have drawn widespread criticism, with human rights advocates and political commentators accusing him of fostering toxicity and making threats. Recently, he suggested that Fadzayi Mahere, a former Member of Parliament, needed "time behind bars" to improve her "literacy level."

Social Media Reacts

The rumors of Charamba's dismissal have sparked a flurry of reactions on social media.

“If true, this would be the first time Mnangagwa has listened to the masses,” tweeted popular social media personality Majaira Jairos, who described Charamba as an "old-fashioned speech writer, full of toxin."

Exiled former Cabinet minister Saviour Kasukuwere also weighed in, mocking Charamba with cryptic messages on X.

Charamba's Silence Fuels Speculation

Notably absent from the online fray was Charamba himself, an active user of X, who remained silent throughout the day. His absence only deepened the speculation, with some interpreting it as confirmation of his dismissal.

While the government has yet to officially confirm the reports, many observers see Charamba's rumored exit as a significant development, reflecting a potential shift in Mnangagwa's approach to governance and communication.