By Political Reporter— An aide to Harare provincial chairperson Goodwills Masimirembwa was doused with petrol and set alight by suspected supporters of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga.
The incident occurred over the weekend, concurrently with a petrol bomb attack on Masimirembwa’s business offices, reportedly carried out by the same group.
Speaking to reporters, Masimirembwa recounted how unknown assailants threw petrol bombs at his offices, causing extensive damage to property.
One of the security guards was then doused in petrol and set ablaze.
While Masimirembwa did not reveal the identity of the injured security guard, he explained that doing so would put the victim at greater risk, as the attackers remain at large.
“The explosion caused significant destruction, shattering windows and setting parts of the building on fire. The blaze was eventually brought under control, but not before it left a trail of damage,” he said.
Police spokesperson Paul Nyathi confirmed that a team of investigators has been dispatched to determine the motive behind the attack. “We are taking this incident very seriously and are committed to bringing those responsible to justice,” Nyathi stated.
Masimirembwa has been a key figure within Zanu PF’s Harare structures, positioning him as a significant player in the party’s internal dynamics.
The attack comes amidst rising tensions between factions loyal to Mnangagwa and those supporting Chiwenga, each vying for dominance as the party contemplates its future leadership.
Tensions are expected to flare further at Zanu PF’s annual conference, which begins today in Bulawayo.
Chiwenga’s supporters have vowed to challenge Mnangagwa’s faction, accusing them of attempting to block the Vice President’s path to power in 2028.
This is not the first time Zanu PF’s succession battle has turned violent.
Since the coup that ousted former President Robert Mugabe in 2017, divisions within the party have deepened, with Mnangagwa and Chiwenga leading opposing factions.
The latest attack has heightened fears among Zanu PF members that internal conflicts could destabilize the party ahead of future elections.
The timing of the violence is particularly sensitive, as Zimbabwe faces growing public discontent over worsening economic conditions, including rampant inflation and unemployment, which continue to fuel unrest across the country.