Jenarari Finds Warmth In Church
4 February 2025
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By A Correspondent

Vice President General (Retired) Dr. Constantino Chiwenga, a key figure in Zimbabwe’s political landscape, is finding solace in the church amidst escalating tensions within the ruling party, Zanu PF. As the battle for succession intensifies, Chiwenga’s position has come under scrutiny, with growing whispers that he may be a stumbling block to President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s bid for a third term in office. While Mnangagwa’s supporters push for a 2030 agenda that extends his leadership, Chiwenga’s influence and loyalty to his principles are raising questions about the future direction of the party.

In a significant personal moment, Chiwenga was recently inducted into the Roman Catholic Guilds at the Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception at the House of Nazareth in Harare. This event, marked by his wife Colonel Miniyothabo Chiwenga and children, highlighted the Vice President’s deep connection to his faith, which has been a guiding force throughout his life.

Speaking to the media after the ceremony, Chiwenga spoke passionately about the role of the Catholic Church in shaping his character and guiding his service to the nation. “I was baptized soon after my birth on the 2nd of July 1956 and I have been a Catholic ever since. Fast forward, when I went to the war of liberation in 1973, I never stopped my Catholicism. I went to war with my rosary and I came back with it,” Chiwenga said. His statement is a testament to the enduring strength of his faith, which he says has been integral to both his personal and professional life.

For Chiwenga, the church has been a steadfast support system through various trials. The guild system within the Catholic Church encourages members to deepen their faith and build a strong sense of community, values which Chiwenga aligns with his approach to leadership. He emphasized that the church plays a key role in promoting national cohesion, unity, and peace—values he believes are essential to Zimbabwe’s development.

Chiwenga’s commitment to the church and his strong sense of moral duty appear to guide his approach to governance. His routine, which includes arriving early to work and staying committed to his faith, seems to reflect a man dedicated to both his country and his belief system. This blend of personal conviction and professional dedication is perhaps what sets Chiwenga apart in Zimbabwe’s increasingly complex political environment.

However, as Zanu PF’s internal struggles over succession heat up, Chiwenga finds himself at the center of the storm. His supporters argue that his military background, leadership experience, and commitment to Zimbabwe’s sovereignty make him a natural successor to Mnangagwa. Yet, Mnangagwa’s allies are pushing for him to extend his rule beyond the constitutional limits, with the 2030 agenda serving as the rallying point for those who wish to see the President remain in power.

As the nation watches these developments unfold, Chiwenga’s public return to his religious roots may be an attempt to find balance in the midst of political turbulence. Whether or not the church can provide him with the guidance needed to navigate this volatile situation remains to be seen, but it is clear that Chiwenga’s faith continues to serve as a cornerstone of his leadership.

In the coming months, Zimbabwe will likely see an intensification of political maneuvering within Zanu PF, with Chiwenga’s role in the succession battle likely to remain a pivotal topic of discussion. As the church serves as a source of solace for the Vice President, it may also play an unexpected role in the unfolding political drama.