WATCH LIVE as Gambakwe discusses the political situation in Zimbabwe, specifically focusing on Vice President Constantino Chiwenga. Gambakwe asserts that Chiwenga’s dismissal is imminent, claiming a fake letter regarding a conference is part of the events leading up to it. He highlights discrepancies in the letter as evidence of forgery.
Gambakwe describes an ongoing power struggle between Chiwenga and President Mnangagwa, suggesting that if one isn’t removed, the other will be, and that no substantial work is being done due to their constant conflict [01:28, 10:35]. He believes these events are a distraction to prevent Chiwenga from focusing on national issues like corruption [08:09].
He also emphasizes that the office of the Vice President in Zimbabwe holds very little real power, noting that an acting president has limited authority and that Mnangagwa has allegedly removed portfolios from Chiwenga [09:56, 13:34]. Gambakwe speculates on potential successors if Chiwenga is removed, mentioning Valerio Sibanda or Oppah Muchinguri [16:16]. He also suggests that a case, possibly accusing him of factionalism, might be built against Chiwenga before his dismissal [16:46].
Notes
Zimbabwe has two Vice Presidents, and their powers are primarily derived from the President, as they serve to assist the President in the execution of his or her duties. While they hold the second-highest political positions in the country, their independent powers are limited.
Here’s a breakdown of their roles and powers:
Key Responsibilities and Powers:
Assisting the President: The primary role of the Vice Presidents is to assist the President in carrying out their functions. This means they generally act under the direction and assignment of the President. Acting President: Whenever the President is absent from Zimbabwe or unable to perform official functions due to illness or other causes, one of the Vice Presidents (or a minister chosen by the President or Cabinet) assumes and exercises those functions as Acting President. Limited Powers as Acting President: Even when acting as President, there are specific limitations on their powers. An acting president is generally forbidden from: Deploying defense forces. Entering into any international convention or treaty. Revoking the appointment of ministers or deputy ministers. Assigning functions to ministers or deputy ministers. Ministerial Portfolios: Vice Presidents may be assigned specific ministerial portfolios by the President. For example, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has held the portfolio of Minister of Health and Child Care.
Limitations and General Perception:
Presidential Discretion: The powers and duties of the Vice Presidents are largely at the discretion of the President, who appoints them and assigns their functions. “Figureheads” Criticism: Some political commentators and legal experts have described the Vice President roles as largely ceremonial or “figureheads” due to the significant limitations on their independent executive functions. They often operate by following the President’s instructions. No Other Public Office: While in office, Vice Presidents generally cannot hold any other public office or be employed by anyone else. In essence, the Zimbabwean Vice Presidents primarily function as extensions of the President’s office, carrying out duties and responsibilities as assigned by the President. Their independent executive authority is significantly curtailed.
