President Emmerson Mnangagwa intervened in a Zanu-PF internal dispute by nullifying the dismissal of six social media activists deemed ‘rogue elements’ by legal secretary Patrick Chinamasa. This decision has heightened existing tensions linked to succession politics within the party. The reinstated activists are expected to resume their work in promoting Mnangagwa’s campaign, amidst ongoing speculation regarding his ambitions for extending his presidency.
In Harare, Zimbabwe, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has intervened in an internal dispute within the Zanu-PF party, countering the legal secretary Patrick Chinamasa’s decision to dismiss six social media activists labeled as “rogue elements.” This intervention has exacerbated the tensions already present in the party due to factional divisions associated with succession politics.
President Mnangagwa expressed his disapproval of the dismissals through a handwritten note on an appeal letter from one affected activist, Jonasi Mandiwisa Musara. He declared that “the said dismissals are null and void,” endorsing the activists’ continuation of their work in promoting the EDWORKS campaign. Musara’s appeal noted a prior meeting with the president, who clarified that the dismissals were not authorized by him.
The reinstatement of the activists threatens to deepen the existing divisions within Zanu-PF, directly challenging Chinamasa’s authority as the executive director of the Varakashi4ED Social Media Unit. Chinamasa accused the dismissed activists of insulting senior party officials, prompting their initial removal. Among those dismissed were Tinotenda Gachange, Tafadzwa Mawire, Felix Muzondo, Pardon Mangwende, and Herbert Mathe, who has since criticized Chinamasa on social media.
Despite publicly denying intentions to extend his presidency past the current term, critics suggest that Mnangagwa may secretly encourage constitutional amendments to eliminate term limits, allowing his potential prolongation in office. With the activists’ reinstatement, it is evident that the internal power struggle within Zanu-PF continues, with loyalties split among factions vying for the president’s ongoing leadership or challenging it.
Mnangagwa’s intervention has intensified the competition for influence within the party, igniting speculation regarding its future trajectory and the president’s aspirations amidst the ongoing factional disputes surrounding succession.
In summary, President Mnangagwa’s intervention to reverse the dismissals of social media activists has intensified existing tensions within Zanu-PF, further complicating internal power dynamics. The situation reflects deeper factional divides linked to succession politics, while critics continue to speculate about the president’s intentions regarding his political future. The reinstatement of the activists indicates a continued battle for influence within the party, highlighting the intricacies of loyalty and ambition within Zimbabwe’s political landscape.
Original Source: www.thezimbabwemail.com
