Kuda Tagwirei dumps Mnangagwa for Chiwenga

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In a dramatic twist within Zimbabwe’s political landscape, business magnate Kuda Tagwirei has reportedly reconciled with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, marking a significant shift in Zanu PF’s succession dynamics. Tagwirei, known for his close ties to President Emmerson Mnangagwa since the 2017 coup that ousted Robert Mugabe, had allegedly drifted apart from Chiwenga over business disputes that tilted Tagwirei towards Mnangagwa’s camp.

The reconciliation, facilitated by a senior army general acting as an intermediary, signals a strategic realignment amidst brewing tensions over Mnangagwa’s succession plans

Mnangagwa, now serving his final term until 2028, has faced internal party pressure from factions advocating for an extension under the “ED2030” campaign. This maneuver has sparked dissent within Zanu PF, reminiscent of the factionalism that plagued Mugabe’s final years in power.

Sources within Zanu PF suggest that Tagwirei’s recent overtures to Chiwenga aim to safeguard his extensive business interests, which include significant holdings in mining, agriculture, and finance sectors. The tycoon’s influence was bolstered during Mnangagwa’s early presidency, where he wielded considerable power in state contracts and appointments. However, recent challenges, including rivalries with figures like Wicknell Chivayo, have reportedly marginalized his influence.

“Tagwirei does not support the ED 2030 initiative and believes Mnangagwa should respect constitutional term limits,” a source familiar with the matter revealed, highlighting Tagwirei’s divergent stance from Mnangagwa loyalists pushing for extended presidential tenure.

The thaw in relations between Tagwirei and Chiwenga comes amidst broader geopolitical scrutiny, with both figures previously implicated in controversies over business dealings. Tagwirei, notably sanctioned by the US and UK for alleged corruption ties, expanded his footprint through ventures like Kuvimba Mining House, which consolidated state-owned assets under his control.

Critics argue that Tagwirei’s maneuvers underscore a quest to sustain influence regardless of leadership transitions, aligning strategically with potential successors within Zanu PF. The reconciliation follows reports linking Tagwirei’s business dealings, including a contentious chrome mining venture involving Chiwenga, which soured relations before the recent rapprochement.

While both Chiwenga and Tagwirei declined to comment on the recent developments, insiders suggest their renewed alliance could reshape Zanu PF’s internal dynamics ahead of pivotal leadership transitions. As Zimbabwe navigates these intricate power plays, the implications for political stability and economic policy remain pivotal, with observers closely monitoring further developments within the ruling party.

The evolving narrative underscores the complexity of Zimbabwe’s political landscape, where personal alliances and economic interests intertwine with national governance and succession ambitions. As stakeholders speculate on future leadership trajectories, the Tagwirei-Chiwenga realignment adds a compelling chapter to Zimbabwe’s ongoing political saga.