The ZANU PF annual conference has been gripped by internal power struggles, with reports indicating a growing rift between President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his deputy, Constantino Chiwenga. Sources suggest Chiwenga mocked the Vice President after a ZANU PF conference speech, intensifying the political drama. Further compounding the situation, Vice President Kembo Mohadi was reportedly airlifted from the conference after falling ill, being “stabilised” at a private hospital in Harare. In a significant administrative shift, President Mnangagwa has also brought wealthy ally Kudakwashe Tagwirei, a sanctioned tycoon, into the ZANU PF politburo, handing him an investment portfolio after splitting the finance ministry. This move signifies Tagwirei’s “dizzying climb to Zanu PF’s inner circle”.
Key Players Involved
- Emmerson Mnangagwa: President of Zimbabwe, leading ZANU PF.
- Constantino Chiwenga: Vice President of Zimbabwe, reportedly at odds with Mnangagwa.
- Kembo Mohadi: Vice President of Zimbabwe, airlifted due to illness during the conference.
- Kudakwashe Tagwirei: Sanctioned tycoon, appointed to the ZANU PF politburo with an investment portfolio.
Event Timeline
- October 17, 2026: Mnangagwa fires back at Chiwenga.
- October 17, 2026: Mohadi airlifted from ZANU PF conference.
- October 17, 2026: Mnangagwa brings Tagwirei into ZANU PF politburo.
