ED reinstates skirt-chaser Mohadi as VP

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President Emmerson Mnangagwa has sworn in Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi as his Vice Presidents, in a move that has surprised many observers.

The ceremony, which was held at the State House in Harare on today, was officiated by Chief Justice Luke Malaba.

Chiwenga, who is also the Minister of Health and Childcare, retained his position as the first Vice President, while Mohadi made a comeback as the second Vice President, two years after he resigned over sex scandals.

In March 2021, Mohadi stepped down from the top post after his phone call recordings pestering different women for sex went viral on social media.

He however claimed he was a victim of social media distortions, voice cloning and political sabotage.

“I am stepping down as the Vice President of the Republic of Zimbabwe…not as a matter of cowardice but as a sign of demonstrating great respect to the office of the President,” he said at the time.

His resignation was seen as a rare move in Zimbabwean politics, where leaders often cling to power despite public pressure.

However, his return to the vice presidency has raised questions about Mnangagwa’s motives and judgement.

Some analysts have suggested that Mnangagwa is trying to appease the military faction within his ruling ZANU-PF party, which is loyal to Chiwenga and Mohadi.

Others have argued that Mnangagwa is rewarding Mohadi for his loyalty and silence during the sex scandal, which could have exposed some secrets within the government.

“Mnangagwa is playing a balancing act between the different factions in his party and the military. He is also trying to consolidate his power by bringing back Mohadi, who knows a lot about the inner workings of the government,” said political commentator Alex Magaisa.

He added that Mohadi’s reinstatement could also be seen as a sign of contempt for public opinion and accountability.

“The message that Mnangagwa is sending is that he does not care about what people think or say. He is saying that he can do whatever he wants, even if it means bringing back someone who resigned in disgrace,” Magaisa said.

The swearing-in of the vice presidents comes amid growing economic and social challenges in Zimbabwe, which has been hit by inflation, unemployment, power cuts, water shortages and Covid-19.

Many Zimbabweans have expressed their frustration and disappointment with the government’s performance and policies on social media.

“Instead of focusing on solving our problems, Mnangagwa is busy recycling old and tainted leaders. This is a slap in the face of the people who are suffering every day,” said one Twitter user.