Harare, Zimbabwe – Deepening political rifts within Zimbabwe’s ruling ZANU PF party have come to the fore, with recent statements and developments at the party’s National People’s Conference highlighting significant internal tensions regarding President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s projected candidacy for the 2030 elections. Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe reportedly took a swipe at Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, cautioning against the presence of ‘two suns’ in ZANU PF, a clear reference to leadership struggles.
The conference, which entered its final stretch in Chinhoyi, has seen delegates reportedly pushing for President Mnangagwa to remain in power beyond 2030, a move that has been met with both endorsement and underlying discord. Reports also indicate that the ZANU-PF Congress has been strategically moved to 2029 to bypass a leadership vote in 2027, further fueling speculation about a concerted effort to solidify Mnangagwa’s position.
Key Players Involved
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa: Current President and focus of the 2030 candidacy discussions.
- Vice President Constantino Chiwenga: Allegedly at odds with the faction pushing for Mnangagwa’s extended term, described as a ‘loose bolt in a car engine’ by Mutsvangwa.
- Minister Daniel Garwe: Local Government Minister, who publicly warned against ‘two suns’ in the party, alluding to Chiwenga’s perceived challenge.
Event Timeline
- October 17, 2026: Vice President Chiwenga reportedly brought the battle to Chinhoyi, signaling his stance on the party’s direction.
- October 18, 2026: Reports emerged that ZANU PF endorsed Mnangagwa as the sole candidate until 2030 and shifted the party congress to 2029.
- October 19, 2026: Minister Garwe’s public comments intensified the debate around leadership, while the ZANU PF conference continued in Harare.
