By A Correspondent | ZimEye | A political storm is brewing in Zimbabwe after explosive allegations surfaced against businessman Wicknell Chivayo, who is accused of manufacturing political regalia as part of a plot to destabilize Vice President Constantino Chiwenga.
The accusations have thrust the country into a state of political uncertainty, with commentators predicting further chaos within the ruling ZANU-PF party.
Columnist and opinionator Kerina Mujati stirred controversy after she publicly accused Chivayo of printing the clothing—T-shirts, caps, and other items—bearing Chiwenga’s name and imagery.
According to Mujati, this was done in a clandestine attempt to suggest that Chiwenga is preparing to challenge President Emmerson Mnangagwa for power ahead of the next ZANU-PF elective congress.
Mujati’s allegations have sparked widespread speculation within Zimbabwe, particularly as tensions within ZANU-PF have been simmering since the controversial 2023 general elections, which many claim were marred by irregularities. As the country prepares for its upcoming ZANU-PF conference, the release of the regalia has deepened suspicions of a brewing power struggle between factions loyal to Mnangagwa and those rallying behind Chiwenga.
Adding to the intrigue, reports circulated that President Mnangagwa flew to his rural home in Zvishavane without any official announcement, prompting rumors of internal discussions or damage control within the top echelons of the party. Chiwenga, meanwhile, has been conspicuously absent from public appearances, leading to speculation that he may be laying low due to fears of a political maneuver against him.
In response to the escalating allegations, Dr. Masimba Mavaza, a prominent ZANU-PF member, dismissed the claims as “nonsense,” calling them a smear campaign designed to create divisions within the party. “ZANU-PF is united and strong,” Mavaza insisted during a heated broadcast debate on ZimEye. “This regalia was not authorized by Vice President Chiwenga, and he is not involved in any plot to seize power.”
Despite these reassurances, many observers believe the situation is a symptom of deeper factionalism within ZANU-PF. The party has historically been plagued by infighting, with several high-profile figures vying for influence in Zimbabwe’s volatile political landscape. The recent coup in 2017 that ousted long-serving leader Robert Mugabe remains fresh in the minds of many, and there are concerns that the current tensions could lead to a similar outcome.
The regalia controversy has ignited fears that Zimbabwe may be heading toward another period of political unrest, as the symbolism associated with such clothing in Zimbabwean politics has often signaled deeper rifts or pending leadership shifts. The circulation of the items bearing Chiwenga’s name has been interpreted by some as an attempt to sow discord within ZANU-PF, while others see it as a signal of Chiwenga’s potential aspirations for higher office.
As the ZANU-PF conference approaches, the stakes are high. The party, which has ruled Zimbabwe since independence in 1980, faces mounting pressure both internally and externally. With rumors of factional splits and leadership challenges swirling, the next few weeks may prove critical in determining the future direction of the nation.
For now, Zimbabweans are left anxiously watching as their leaders engage in a dangerous game of political brinkmanship. Many are hoping that cooler heads will prevail, but the signs of a looming crisis are becoming harder to ignore.- ZimEye