By Farai D Hove | ZimEye | Harare, Zimbabwe – February 11, 2025
In a move signaling further political consolidation, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has dismissed Apollonia Munzverengwi from her position as Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Mashonaland East Province and replaced her with Itayi Ndudzo, a figure linked to the influential Rushwaya family.
The announcement was formalized through a press statement issued by Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr. Martin Rushwaya, on February 11, 2025. The statement confirmed that Munzverengwi was removed in terms of Section 108(1a) of the Constitution, while Ndudzo’s appointment was carried out under Section 104 Subsection (1) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
This development has sparked speculation about internal power struggles within the ruling ZANU-PF party, particularly between Mnangagwa and Vice President Constantino Chiwenga. Munzverengwi, who is reportedly a relative of Chiwenga, is seen as a casualty of the ongoing political realignments within the party.
Meanwhile, Ndudzo, the new Minister, has close ties to the Rushwaya family, known to be relatives of President Mnangagwa. This appointment further solidifies the Rushwaya influence within the government, following other high-profile appointments and controversies involving members of the family.
Political Implications
Munzverengwi’s dismissal comes at a time when ZANU-PF factional battles are intensifying. Mnangagwa, who is reportedly eyeing a third term despite internal opposition, appears to be strengthening his grip on power by purging Chiwenga-linked officials and replacing them with his loyalists.
Observers say the move is also strategic ahead of the 2028 elections, as Mnangagwa seeks to consolidate his authority and neutralize potential challengers within ZANU-PF. Chiwenga, who led the 2017 military coup that ousted Robert Mugabe, has long been rumored to harbor presidential ambitions, and any influence he retains in key provinces could pose a threat to Mnangagwa’s long-term plans.
Mnangagwa’s Growing Influence in Mashonaland East
Mashonaland East is a key province in Zimbabwe’s political landscape, serving as a traditional stronghold for ZANU-PF. The replacement of Munzverengwi with Ndudzo suggests Mnangagwa wants absolute control over the region, ensuring that his allies dominate structures ahead of the next electoral cycle.
With Dr. Martin Rushwaya—another Mnangagwa loyalist—handling key administrative functions, the latest reshuffle further strengthens the president’s inner circle.
Mnangagwa’s decision to fire a Chiwenga ally and replace her with a Rushwaya-linked official is a clear indication of the ongoing political realignments within Zimbabwe’s ruling party. Whether this marks the beginning of a broader cabinet reshuffle or a targeted move against Chiwenga’s influence remains to be seen.
However, one thing is certain: Mnangagwa is tightening his grip on power, and any opposition—internal or external—will likely face similar purges as Zimbabwe inches closer to the next major elections.-ZimEye