ZANU PF's annual conference: Unity or internal div...

ZANU PF's annual conference: Unity or internal divisions?

Oscar J Jeke

Zim Now Reporter

As Zimbabwe's ruling party, ZANU PF, gathers for its annual conference, officials are scrambling to downplay rumors of internal divisions and infighting. Farai Marapira, Director of Information and Publicity, dismissed concerns, calling them "nothing but a distraction"

Marapira and fellow senior official Ziyambi Ziyambi insist the party remains unified under President Emmerson Mnangagwa's leadership. Ziyambi even laughed off media reports, saying they "create fictitious divisions" . However, observers note signs of political tension, particularly with reports of pro-Mabel Chinomona t-shirts worn by ZANU PF officials, sparking questions about Vice President Constantino Chiwenga's position.

Sources close to the Women's League suggest the push for Chinomona is part of a broader strategy to elevate a female candidate into the top three leadership positions, backed by Mnangagwa's allies . This development echoes the internal conflicts of 2011-2017, which led to former President Robert Mugabe's ousting. Political analysts warn that these power dynamics may be more than just routine internal structure adjustments.

The position of political commissar has become increasingly precarious, with short lifespans and mysterious departures . This trend raises concerns about the party's stability and ability to manage internal conflicts.

As ZANU PF projects an image of unity, the country approaches its next major election cycle. Will this narrative hold, or will internal divisions resurface? Only time will tell. For now, the party's determination to present a unified front remains a key aspect of its conference.

Stay informed about the latest developments in Zimbabwe's politics and ZANU PF's conference.