ICT Minister in alleged provocation at Heroes Acre

ICT, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera is facing mounting criticism and backlash after leading a controversial song at the burial of Justin Mupamhanga at Heroes Acre on Monday, which many perceived as a veiled attack on acting President Constantino Chiwenga.

Mavetera, who leads the Young Women 4ED, a group aligned with President Emmerson Mnangagwa's loyalists, was filmed singing a song that included the lyrics "sellouts deserve to be in a hole," which was widely interpreted as being aimed at Vice-President Chiwenga.

The incident has ignited tensions within the ruling Zanu-PF party, with some accusing Mavetera of disrespecting both the office of the acting president and the sanctity of the Heroes Acre, a national monument dedicated to Zimbabwe's liberation heroes.

The General Chiwenga Voluntary Supporters Association (GCVSA) condemned Mavetera's actions in a strongly worded press statement, calling it "a direct provocation" and an "act of betrayal" against the former army commander.

"Heroes Acre is not a playground for political theatrics," said the statement, issued by the group's secretary-general Ntokozo Msipha. "It is hallowed ground where the bravest sons and daughters of Zimbabwe rest, a site consecrated by the sacrifices of those who fought for our liberation."

The GCVSA described the incident as "reckless" and "dishonourable," labeling it an "unforgivable insult" not only to Chiwenga but also to Zimbabwe's war veterans, soldiers, and patriotic citizens.

Chiwenga, a decorated war veteran and former military commander, remains a central figure in Zimbabwe's political and military landscape. His supporters, including the GCVSA, framed the incident as a direct attack on the nation's revolutionary values.

"General Chiwenga is not just a leader; he is a guardian of Zimbabwe's sovereignty," the statement continued. "Any assault on his dignity is an assault on the values of our revolution."

The GCVSA also issued a stern warning to those who might challenge Chiwenga's stature and authority within the party, stressing that further provocations would not be tolerated.

"Let this statement serve as a final warning — discipline, respect, and loyalty are the cornerstones of leadership. Those who fail to uphold them will find themselves on the wrong side of history," Msipha added.

Mavetera has yet to respond to the accusations or comments on the incident, despite several requests for clarification.

The altercation at Heroes Acre comes amid rising factionalism within Zanu-PF, with divisions deepening over efforts to amend the Constitution to extend President Mnangagwa's tenure. While Mnangagwa has repeatedly expressed disinterest in staying in office beyond his constitutional two terms, a faction within Zanu-PF is pushing for an extension of his term until 2030, a resolution adopted at the party's annual conference last year.

The situation is further complicated by a recent statement from the Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations, urging Mnangagwa to resist any attempts to alter the Constitution and extend his presidency.

Political analysts suggest that the Mavetera incident is symptomatic of the growing tensions and factional rivalry within Zanu-PF, with figures aligned to different factions seeking to assert dominance ahead of the 2028 elections.

As the controversy unfolds, many are watching closely to see how the ruling party will manage the internal divisions that appear to be escalating.