Mnangagwa Rewards Loyalist Ezra Chadzamira With Top Award Amid Merit Concerns – Eduzim News

Tinashe Sambiri – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has come under criticism after presiding over the 2026 Performance Contracts Signing and Awards Ceremony at the Harare International Conference Centre on Monday, March 16, which saw some of his closest allies recognised with top awards.

Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Ezra Chadzamira was named Best Minister of State, while Permanent Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Addmore Pazvakavambwa won the Best Secretary award.

In the Urban Local Authorities category, Masvingo City Mayor Alec Tabe was named First Runner-Up Mayor/Council Chairperson. Meanwhile, Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Permanent Secretary Obert Jiri received the Top Performing Permanent Secretary award, and Minister of Tourism Barbra Rwodzi was named best Cabinet Minister.

Critics argue the ceremony appeared to prioritise loyalty over actual performance.

A Masvingo-based observer said:
“This seems less about merit and more about rewarding those who are loyal to the President,” they said.

The awards have raised concerns that such recognitions are being used to consolidate political support within the ruling party rather than genuinely improve accountability or service delivery.

Observers warn that putting loyalty above competence risks undermining public confidence in state institutions and encourages patronage networks.

“Honouring allies while ignoring broader performance sends the wrong message about governance,” said another political analyst, highlighting the potential long-term consequences for Zimbabwe’s public sector.

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