Several Zanu-PF affiliates have publicly expressed support for the co-option of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Investments Adviser, Dr Paul Tungwarara, into the party’s Central Committee, following reported internal opposition.
Dr Tungwarara was nominated by Manicaland province to fill a vacancy left by Dorothy Mabika, who recently assumed the role of Provincial Women’s League Chairperson. However, the appointment faced resistance from national political commissar Munyaradzi Machacha, who initially overturned the move on the grounds that Tungwarara does not originate from the relevant administrative district.
Despite this, sources indicate that Dr Tungwarara has assumed the position, with his status reportedly affirmed during a meeting at Mutare Girls High School over the past weekend.
Leaders of key party affiliates have rallied behind the province’s decision. Samora Chisvo of Vendors for ED praised Tungwarara’s track record in supporting presidential empowerment initiatives, noting that “many vendors have benefited from revolving funds and are in business thanks to his efforts.” Chisvo added that the Zanu-PF constitution clearly outlines the selection process and affirmed their solidarity with the provincial decision.
Trymore Bhobho Chimbongora, Manicaland provincial chairperson for Boyz DzaMdhara, echoed the sentiment, stating: “We are in full solidarity with the province in co-opting the President’s adviser to the Central Committee. We are aware of the selection body, but we support him.”
Other affiliates, including Young Women for ED and Vapostori for Economic Development, have also backed Tungwarara’s co-option, signaling a coordinated show of grassroots and sectoral support within the party despite ongoing procedural disputes at the national level.
The developments highlight tensions between provincial autonomy and national oversight in Zanu-PF’s internal decision-making, while underscoring Dr Tungwarara’s influence and the support he commands among key party constituencies in Manicaland.
Source – Newsday
