Mnangagwa Expands Tungwarara’s Role Amid Questions of Cronyism and Power Grab – Eduzim News

Tinashe Sambiri– President Emmerson Mnangagwa has significantly broadened the remit of Tempter Paul Tungwarara, elevating him from a specialist role focused on Dubai affairs to a sweeping position covering all regions, including added responsibilities over empowerment programs—a move critics say reeks of cronyism.

A recently released letter of appointment reveals that Tungwarara will serve a renewable two-year term and is empowered to “conduct mutual engagements on behalf of the Government” across his new “domain of responsibilities.”

The letter further requests:
“I would be most grateful if the relevant authorities, who acknowledge this appointment, could grant him all the privileges, facilities and immunities, which other Presidential advisors have in similar circumstances.”

Observers have raised concerns about the concentration of influence in the hands of a single advisor, warning that the expanded role gives Tungwarara extraordinary powers without sufficient oversight.

One political analyst commented, “This is another example of how the system rewards loyalty over competence. Giving one individual such sweeping authority, especially in areas like empowerment, risks entrenching favoritism and undermining transparency.”

Tungwarara’s political clout has grown further after his co-option into the ZANU PF Central Committee in December 2025, consolidating his influence within both the party and government machinery.
Critics argue that the move raises red flags over accountability, with some suggesting it could facilitate preferential treatment in government contracts and empowerment initiatives.

A concerned citizen, speaking anonymously, said, “It feels like positions of power are being handed to insiders rather than people with merit.

This is how patronage networks grow, and ordinary citizens lose out.”

As Tungwarara assumes his expanded duties, questions continue about whether the government is prioritizing loyalty over public interest, and whether such unchecked authority could further entrench a culture of favoritism and impunity.

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