Chiwenga vs. Mutsvangwa: Tensions Linger at State House Function

By Farai D Hove | ZimEye | A high-profile State House function meant to celebrate Kirsty Coventry’s new role as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) President became an unexpected stage for political undercurrents, as Vice President Constantino Chiwenga and former Minister Christopher Mutsvangwa found themselves in the same room for the first time since their publicized fallout. The event, captured in the attached images, suggests that while diplomacy prevailed, the underlying tension between the two remained palpable.

An Unresolved Rift

The rift between Chiwenga and Mutsvangwa stems from a leaked audio recording in which Mutsvangwa allegedly accused Chiwenga of “decapitating” his estranged wife, Marry Chiwenga. These shocking claims were later refuted by Marry herself in a ZimEye YouTube interview, where she stated she had never had any discussions with Mutsvangwa regarding her former husband.

The scandal cast a shadow over the country’s political elite, with supporters on both sides engaging in heated debates about the credibility of the allegations.

Despite these accusations, Chiwenga and Mutsvangwa were both present at the State House function, yet their body language and interactions—or lack thereof—spoke volumes about the lingering hostility.

A Tense Atmosphere

In the images, Chiwenga appears composed, donning a sharp blue suit, flanked by his security team as he moves through the venue. His expression is stern, giving no indication of willingness to engage in pleasantries with Mutsvangwa, who is seated at a dinner table in a red tie, accompanied by other dignitaries. The seating arrangement suggests that careful planning may have gone into ensuring the two men were not forced into direct conversation.

Mutsvangwa, on the other hand, appears relaxed but aware of the atmosphere. He is seen at a table with his wife, Monica Mutsvangwa, and other officials, smiling at the camera—possibly a public display of confidence despite the political storm he has found himself in. However, the absence of any photographic evidence of interaction between the two further reinforces the narrative that the rift remains unresolved.

Kirsty Coventry’s Moment Overshadowed?

While the event was officially held to honor Kirsty Coventry’s achievement, the political tension in the room arguably stole some of the spotlight. Coventry, seen in a shiny green dress, was all smiles as she shook hands with President Emmerson Mnangagwa. However, the presence of the feuding political figures may have diverted attention from the primary purpose of the gathering.

Political Implications

This event underscores the growing cracks within Zimbabwe’s ruling elite. Chiwenga, a key figure in the 2017 coup that brought Mnangagwa to power, has been at the center of political intrigue, while Mutsvangwa, a vocal Mnangagwa ally, has found himself in an increasingly precarious position after his controversial remarks. Their lack of public reconciliation suggests that the tension is far from over and could have deeper implications for ZANU-PF’s internal power struggles.

Though no direct confrontation took place at the event, the images tell a story of lingering resentment. As Zimbabwe’s political landscape continues to shift, all eyes will be on Chiwenga and Mutsvangwa’s next moves. Whether their feud escalates or is quietly buried remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—there was no love lost between the two at this high-profile function.- ZimEye