By Munacho Gwamanda-President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his deputy, Constantino Chiwenga, have clashed over controversial businessman and Zanu PF benefactor Wicknell Chivhayo in a growing dispute that exposes the fractures within Zimbabwe’s ruling elite.

The tensions became evident on Monday at State House when Mnangagwa met with editors to address concerns about his alleged push for constitutional amendments to extend his rule.

During the meeting, Mnangagwa vigorously defended Chivhayo, dismissing any suggestion that he was politically aligned with him.

“Chivhayo is not my front,” Mnangagwa said in response to a question about Chivhayo’s influence. “Stop wasting my time on somebody who is using his money to be philanthropic. If he were a thief, we would have sent the police.”

His comments come in the wake of Vice President Chiwenga’s thinly veiled warning about the rampant looting of state resources by politically connected elites.

Without naming Chivhayo directly, Chiwenga metaphorically referred to him as “Zvigananda,” implying that he was aware of individuals enriching themselves at the expense of the state.

The rift between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga over Chivhayo’s influence intensified after the businessman recently purchased a brand-new 2025 Rolls-Royce Cullinan Black Badge for Mnangagwa’s chief financial enabler, Kudakwashe Tagwirei.

The ultra-luxury vehicle, valued at $1.2 million, is set to go into production in April and will be delivered in July 2025.

Chivhayo, who has long benefitted from lucrative government contracts, announced the extravagant gift in a gushing tribute to Tagwirei, describing him as a “businessman of unquestionable integrity” and a “mentor.” Growing Tensions in Zanu PF

The timing of this ostentatious gift is particularly significant, as it coincides with increasing tensions within Zanu PF.

Chiwenga has reportedly grown frustrated with the unchecked looting of state resources by Mnangagwa’s inner circle, particularly the so-called “Zvigananda” elite, who continue to amass wealth through opaque deals and state-funded contracts.

By rewarding Tagwirei with a lavish car, Chivhayo is not only flaunting his financial muscle but also openly defying Chiwenga’s calls for accountability.

His actions reinforce the culture of impunity enjoyed by those within Mnangagwa’s faction, further deepening the rift between Zimbabwe’s top two leaders.

Chiwenga’s indirect rebuke of Chivhayo—and, by extension, Mnangagwa—signals growing dissatisfaction within the ruling party over state resources being siphoned off by a select few.