By Political Reporter – Zanu PF Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has signalled a potential shift in Zimbabwe’s political landscape by hinting at his willingness to work with the opposition, sparking fresh speculation about his power struggle with President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Chiwenga, who is expected to succeed Mnangagwa as Zanu PF’s leader and presidential candidate in the 2028 elections, made these remarks during the commissioning of Regina Ceoli Mission Primary School in Nyamaropa, Nyanga, earlier this week.

Speaking at the event, Chiwenga emphasized the importance of inclusivity in government projects and aid distribution, particularly in light of the ongoing drought crisis gripping the Southern African region.

“Our country, like other members of the SADC region, is suffering from the effects of El Niño-induced drought. It was a poor farming season, and families were unable to harvest anything meaningful. Therefore, our President, His Excellency, Cde Emmerson Mnangagwa, has declared that no one will starve,” said Chiwenga.

In a move seen as a potential olive branch to opposition supporters, Chiwenga stressed the need for apolitical food aid distribution.

“As we distribute food aid, there should be no discrimination along political lines. This process must be transparent, and every Zimbabwean must benefit,” he added.

He also revealed that the government is expanding cash transfer programs to reach those left out during initial beneficiary registration, particularly in urban and rural areas.

Chiwenga’s remarks come amid persistent power struggles between him and Mnangagwa, who have shared a tense relationship since their joint effort in ousting long-time ruler Robert Mugabe in 2017.

While Mnangagwa consolidated power after the coup, Chiwenga, the former army general who played a pivotal role in Mugabe’s removal, has long been viewed as a rival within Zanu PF, with growing speculation that he is positioning himself to challenge Mnangagwa’s authority.

Adding another layer to this political intrigue, sources within the opposition suggest that Nelson Chamisa, leader of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), has expressed a greater willingness to work with Chiwenga than with Mnangagwa.

Chamisa, who has been the face of the opposition since his contested defeat in the 2018 elections, reportedly sees Chiwenga as a more pragmatic and less entrenched figure within the ruling party’s hardliner circles.

This growing alignment between Chiwenga and Chamisa could signal a potential reshaping of Zimbabwe’s political alliances as both leaders look to solidify their power bases ahead of the 2028 elections.

For now, Chiwenga’s public comments about working with the opposition have fueled further speculation about his political strategy as he continues to navigate the internal power dynamics within Zanu PF while positioning himself as a future leader of the country.