By Bradshaw Muzanenhamo | As the Zanu PF conference looms just days away, whispers of an impending political storm swirl through the corridors of power in Zimbabwe. At the centre of this turbulence sits President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s girlfriend, Mabel Chinomona, a fierce and ambitious player in the party’s hierarchy, poised to challenge Vice President Constantino Chiwenga for his coveted position. The stakes have never been higher, and the potential for chaos is palpable, as factions within the party prepare for an all-out war.
It’s even worse because ZANU PF has not conducted an elective congress since 2012, despite denials by some/
Chinomona’s audacious bid for Chiwenga’s seat has sent shockwaves through the party, igniting a fierce rivalry that threatens to spill over into violence. Many insiders speculate that this power grab could reduce Chiwenga to nothing more than a mere card-carrying member, a humiliating fall from grace for a man once feared throughout Zimbabwe As tensions mount, the spectre of bloodshed looms ominously over the conference, with Chiwenga’s loyal supporters ready to defend their leader with ferocity.
Ironically, ZANU PF chairlady and minister of Defense, Oppah Muchinguri is reported to have denied to take up the offer only for Chinomona to volunteer.
This latest development aids speculation within the Mnangagwa camp that most of his loyalists are privately supporting the rise of Chiwenga.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa finds himself caught in a precarious situation surrounded by allies whose loyalty is increasingly suspect. Many of these individuals are believed to be covert supporters of Chiwenga, biding their time and pretending allegiance to Mnangagwa. The Central Intelligence Organisation, once a pillar of strength for the president, has also reportedly withdrawn its support, leaving Mnangagwa isolated in a sea of treachery.
Adding to the already explosive atmosphere is the simmering resentment among the military ranks. The soldiers, who once rallied behind Mnangagwa, are not shy about their discontent regarding the mysterious deaths of late army generals. Many believe these deaths were orchestrated by the president himself, breeding a sense of betrayal that festers within the military elite. Chiwenga, a decorated general with deep roots in the army, retains the respect and loyalty of many in the ranks, making him a formidable opponent.
In a shocking turn of events, Vice President Chiwenga has been vocal about his intentions, drawing parallels between his struggle and the biblical tale of David and Goliath. His recent remarks, coupled with the stirring lyrics of Jah Prayzah’s songs, have further fueled the belief that he is a man ready to fight against overwhelming odds. The haunting chorus of “ndinzwe chirawu moyo unehudzamu vanoda kuparara kwangu” resonates with a populace yearning for change, while the defiant tones of “pamuroro” echo a call to arms among the disillusioned youth.
The youth demographic, both within Zanu PF and the opposition, is rallying behind Chiwenga, with an astonishing 85% reportedly supporting his rise. This demographic holds the power to reshape Zimbabwe’s political landscape, and their backing could tip the scales in favour of Chiwenga, further destabilizing Mnangagwa’s tenuous grip on the presidency.
As the Zanu PF conference approaches, the atmosphere is charged with uncertainty and fear. The potential for a power struggle that could lead to violence has never been more real. Will Mabel Chinomona’s ambition trigger a political bloodbath, or will Chiwenga’s loyalists rise to defend their leader against an insidious coup? The answers lie just beyond the horizon, and Zimbabwe holds its breath, waiting for the storm to break.- ZimEye