Another Chiwenga Ally Fired – Eduzim News

By Political Reporter-Zanu PF in Masvingo has fired a ward councilor for suporting Vice President Constantino Chiwenga.

Brighton Mushekwa the party’s Bikita ward 12 councillor was verbally dismissed by Zanu PF Deputy Secretary for Youth Affairs John Paradza during a District Coordinating Committee (DCC) meeting.

Mushekwa stands accused of refusing to chant the contentious slogan “2030 vanenge vachipo,” perceived as an endorsement of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s continued rule beyond 2028, despite the slogan lacking official approval from the party’s Central Committee.

The councillor, however, claims his expulsion is based on unfounded allegations that he supports Chiwenga’s faction in the party’s escalating succession battle.

Factional tensions have been brewing within Zanu PF as Mnangagwa and his deputy, Chiwenga, jockey for influence ahead of the 2028 elections.

Chiwenga, a former army general instrumental in ousting Robert Mugabe in 2017, is seen by many as vying for the top position.

Meanwhile, Mnangagwa’s allies are pushing a narrative of his leadership extending into the next decade, symbolized by the controversial “2030 vanenge vachipo” slogan.

This slogan has sparked a divide in the party, with Mnangagwa loyalists using it as a litmus test for allegiance, while others, like Mushekwa, argue that it has not been constitutionally endorsed.

Mushekwa denies belonging to any faction, emphasizing his commitment to Zanu PF’s constitution and its processes.
“I support the sitting President and the party’s constitutional obligations. The Central Committee is the highest decision-making body, and no one has the authority to enforce unapproved slogans,” Mushekwa stated.

He added that his refusal to chant the slogan does not signify disloyalty but adherence to party rules. “These baseless allegations are being used to abuse power and settle political scores,” he said.

Mushekwa also criticized the use of verbal expulsions, pointing out that Zanu PF’s constitution mandates formal hearings and proper protocols for disciplinary actions.

His claims were backed by Zanu PF Masvingo Provincial Spokesperson Pepukai Chiwewe, who clarified that any expulsion without due process is invalid.

Despite Mnangagwa previously indicating he would not stand in 2030, figures like Paradza and other provincial leaders have aggressively championed the slogan.

They have reportedly threatened to punish members who refuse to endorse it, further inflaming divisions within the party.

Masvingo Province remains a hotbed for factional activity, with leaders leveraging slogans and public rallies to consolidate power.

Chiwewe, however, downplayed the disputes, calling insults during rallies “normal” and advising against taking them seriously.
Source-TellZimNews

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