Zanu PF national spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa has expressed support for the nomination of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s investment adviser Paul Tungwarara by the party’s Manicaland provincial leadership to the influential central committee.
The provincial leadership late last year nominated Tungwarara to replace Dorothy Mabika, who was elected party provincial chairwoman. However, the nomination was dismissed by Zanu PF national commissar Munyaradzi Machacha in a letter addressed to the province, saying the nomination had violated party procedure.
The endorsement of Tungwarara highlights a brewing power struggle within Zanu PF over provincial autonomy and national party control.
As an adviser to Mnangagwa, Tungwarara’s elevation reflects the growing influence of presidential allies in shaping party structures and advancing Vision 2030, using empowerment programmes to consolidate grassroots support.
“As Manicaland, you did a meeting to choose a central committee member and you chose comrade Tungwarara and I am happy that you did so united,” Mutsvangwa said.
“In Harare, there was a similar co-option and I do not see why Cde Tungwarara will not be co-opted to the central committee.”
He added that the matter was before the politburo.
I knew Tungwarara as a businessman long ago and he has done well, but the major thing he has done is to be the special adviser to our President,” Mutsvangwa said.
Speaking during the launch of the Presidential Constituency Empowerment Fund in Marange district, Manicaland, Mutsvangwa praised Tungwarara for advancing Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030. The initiative benefited three constituencies —Mutare North, Mutare West and Mutare South —each receiving US$25 000.
Addressing the same gathering, Tungwarara cautioned those with presidential ambitions against using personal wealth to gain influence, describing Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 as divinely guided.
“We are moving with empowerment programmes. The vision of President Emmerson Mnangagwa is to see everyone in the country getting empowered,” he said.
“President Emmerson Mnangagwa is unstoppable and God is supporting his 2030 vision. If it is possible, he should rule until 2050. There is no vacancy for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s position.”
The meeting was attended by Zanu PF heavyweights, including Manicaland provincial chairperson Tawanda Mukodza, politburo member Mike Madiro, and Women’s Affairs minister Monica Mutsvangwa. – News Day
