By A Correspondent
Infighting within the ZANU PF Youth League has escalated, as Youth League Secretary Tinoda Machakaire has demanded that his deputy, John Paradza, immediately retract a circular that he issued, which allegedly nullified a recent reshuffling of the national executive council.
On December 9, 2024, Machakaire announced the reshuffle of the ZANU PF Youth League, a move that was met with resistance from Paradza. Paradza argued that the reshuffle was unconstitutional and instructed the affected officials to remain in their positions.
In his response, Paradza referred to specific provisions within the party’s constitution, asserting, “May you acquaint yourself with the provisions of Article 26(340)(1)&(2) which provide for the functions and responsibilities of the Deputy Secretary for Youth Affairs.” He emphasized that as Deputy Secretary for Youth Affairs, Machakaire had no right to interfere with the functions of the Secretary for Youth Affairs, stating that Machakaire had no constitutional basis for making such a move.
Paradza further challenged Machakaire’s actions, saying, “In your letter, you have made vague reference to the composition of the Youth League National Executive Council without particularity on the provision you rely on in making your assertions.” He pointed out that there had been no breach of the constitution in the reshuffle, as no official had been removed from the National Executive Council.
Machakaire, in his own letter, defended the reshuffle, stating, “Adjustments in the departmental leadership of the Youth League National Executive Council have been implemented purely for the purposes of enhancing the fulfilment of the Youth League’s constitutional obligations and the execution of the National People’s Conference Resolutions.”
He also made it clear that the changes were in line with guidance from his principal, asserting, “As head of the Youth League, I have communicated the adjustments as I have been duly guided by my Principal in terms of Article 10(88)(1), (2)&(13) and Article 26(339)(1)&(4).”
In conclusion, Machakaire ordered Paradza to withdraw his circular immediately, warning that failure to do so would result in further disciplinary actions. “Your much circulated and published correspondence contesting the communicated position is irregular and must be withdrawn forthwith, failing which the appropriate measures shall be set in motion,” he stated.
The growing tension within the Youth League highlights deepening divisions within ZANU PF, with significant implications for the party’s future cohesion.