Mnangagwa Begins Month-Long Vacation, Deputies to Serve in Rotational Leadership Roles

KEY POINTS

• President Mnangagwa starts a month-long leave, with Vice Presidents Mohadi and Chiwenga alternating as acting leaders.
• Mnangagwa remains in Zimbabwe and accessible for critical national and SADC responsibilities despite his vacation.
• His stay highlights local tourism promotion and commitment to addressing urgent state and regional concerns when required.

Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has begun a month-long annual vacation, Acting Chief Secretary George Charamba announced Monday.

The leave commencing on December 31 will have Vice Presidents Kembo Mohadi and Constantino Chiwenga taking turns in acting leadership positions until Mnangagwa returns to work in early February.

Mnangagwa accessible during Zimbabwe break

Mnangagwa, intending to stay in Zimbabwe during his break, will be accessible for state issues that need his personal involvement.

In his role as Chairman of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), Mnangagwa is responsible for managing vital regional obligations.

Vice Presidents to alternate acting roles

The Acting Chief Secretary’s remarks detailed the timetable for interim leadership. Vice President Kembo Mohadi will act as President from December 31, 2024, until January 19, 2025.

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga will assume responsibilities for the rest of Mnangagwa’s leave.

This setup guarantees the government’s continuity while the president is away, adhering to Zimbabwe’s established procedures.

Both Mohadi and Chiwenga possess significant experience in handling state matters and will supervise current operations during this time.

President balances vacation with regional duties

Although on leave, Mnangagwa will still be available for important responsibilities related to his SADC chairmanship.

His dual function entails tackling both national and regional concerns, especially regarding economic collaboration and security within the region. 

Mnangagwa’s choice to spend his vacation in Zimbabwe emphasizes his desire to promote the local tourism industry and show faith in the country’s infrastructure.

This action further highlights his preparedness to tackle urgent issues that need executive guidance.

The President is anticipated to return to full responsibilities in early February 2025, having assigned tasks to his deputies in his absence.