KEY POINTS
- The Zimbabwean government denies rumors of a leadership rift between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga.
- Information Minister Muswere emphasizes that there is no vacancy in the presidency.
- Muswere warns against the spread of misinformation and assures unity within the government.
Zimbabwe’s Information Minister, Jenfan Muswere, has strongly denied rumors of a political rift between President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his deputy, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga. Addressing the media in Harare on Wednesday, Muswere emphasized that there is no vacancy in the office of the president, dismissing speculations about succession plans or power struggles within the top leadership.
According to All Africa, the rumors surfaced as Mnangagwa prepares for a potential third term in office, a move that some claim has caused friction between him and Chiwenga. Reports indicate that Chiwenga, alongside key military allies, is allegedly positioning himself as Mnangagwa’s successor, aiming to take over once Mnangagwa’s second term ends in 2028.
No discord in the Presidency
Muswere reassured the public that there is no discord between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga, calling such rumors baseless and the work of “overzealous” individuals trying to sow division. He reiterated that Mnangagwa was democratically elected in 2023 and holds his position both constitutionally in government and within the ruling Zanu PF party.
“The leadership of both the party and government is fully intact, and there is no vacancy in the office of the president,” Muswere stated. He further added that preparations for the upcoming National People’s Conference, which will take place in Bulawayo under the theme ‘Mechanize, Modernize, and Grow the Economy Towards Vision 2030,’ are ongoing. He stressed that this event is not an elective congress, putting to rest rumors that Chiwenga may challenge Mnangagwa’s leadership at the conference.
Leadership unity amidst policy focus
Despite apparent tensions during a recent Politburo meeting where both leaders sat side by side without the usual camaraderie, Muswere insisted that there is “singleness in unity, love, comradeship, and harmony” in the presidium. He urged Zimbabweans to focus on the government’s efforts to address poverty and ensure a prosperous future for all.
Muswere emphasized the importance of rallying behind Mnangagwa as he leads Zimbabwe towards becoming an upper middle-income country by 2030. He also highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to achieve economic stability, create jobs, and improve infrastructure, urging all stakeholders to support these national goals.
Warning against divisive narratives
In addition to denying the rumors of internal strife, Muswere issued a stern warning to those spreading misinformation about the Zanu PF leadership. He labeled individuals behind such reports as “half-wits” and emphasized that the government would take legal action against those attempting to destabilize the country with false narratives.
“There is no room for theatrics or manufacturing fiction through imaginary mandates. Anyone spreading falsehoods will be dealt with, according to the law,” Muswere warned.
He urged citizens to focus on the positive developments in the country, rather than being swayed by misleading stories aimed at causing confusion. Muswere’s remarks are seen as an attempt to quell growing concerns about leadership stability in the country, especially as the 21st National People’s Conference approaches.
In conclusion, Muswere made it clear that President Mnangagwa’s leadership remains strong, and the government is unified in its mission to advance Zimbabwe’s economy and future under the Vision 2030 framework. He reiterated that any rumors of discord or leadership changes should be dismissed, as the focus remains on national development.
