By A Correspondent

A Zanu PF councillor from Bikita, Brighton Mushekwa, was arrested on Thursday while addressing vendors at Nyika Rank in Bikita, party sources have confirmed.

The arrest has sparked further tension within the party, as Mushekwa’s political alignment and previous actions have drawn the attention of both party officials and local authorities.

Mushekwa, a well-known critic of Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s third term, has been a vocal advocate against the current direction of Zanu PF’s policies.

A former Bikita District Coordinating Committee (DCC) youth chairman, he was suspended from his position last month. Sources close to the party state that his alignment with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has made him a target within the party.

“He is seen as a sympathiser of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga,” one party source revealed. “Mushekwa has often expressed his support for Chiwenga’s ideas, which has created friction with the leadership in Bikita.”

The circumstances surrounding his arrest are still unclear, but it is believed that his interaction with vendors was seen as an act of defiance, especially considering his suspension from the DCC and his anti-2030 stance. His arrest has been linked to these growing tensions within Zanu PF, which has been facing internal divisions over leadership and direction.

Mushekwa’s outspoken views and connection to Chiwenga have made him a controversial figure within the party, with critics accusing him of undermining the party’s official stance. However, those close to him argue that his actions were motivated by genuine concern for the future of the party and the country.

Despite his arrest, Mushekwa’s supporters remain adamant that his political views are aligned with the broader vision of unity and reform.

The arrest has added another layer of complexity to the already volatile political climate within Zanu PF, and many are watching closely to see how the situation unfolds.