Saturday, September 06

Tensions have erupted within Zanu PF Chiwenga and Mnangagwa

Tensions have erupted within Zanu PF in Chiredzi after Frank Gwashure, a former loyalist of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, was expelled from the Children of Zimbabwe Liberation War Veterans Association (CZLWVA) in Masvingo Province for allegedly aligning with General Constantino Chiwenga’s faction.Gwashure’s supporters reacted swiftly, organizing informal community meetings to discuss the expulsion. “Frank has always been a voice for the people,” one supporter said. “He highlighted issues affecting the youth and working class that many officials prefer to ignore. His removal creates a vacuum at the grassroots level.”

 

 

 

 

 

In response, Gwashure has continued to engage the community outside the party framework, holding meetings to encourage unity and local empowerment. Observers suggest his charisma and continued public presence may allow him to maintain influence even outside Zanu PF structures.

The expulsion has reignited debates over the party’s internal dynamics, particularly the balance between enforcing discipline and allowing constructive dissent. Many insiders warn that sidelining outspoken members could alienate younger supporters eager for change, while others insist it is essential for preserving the party’s ideological cohesion.

 

 

 

 

 

Manyanga was not immediately available for further comment, and party sources The directive, issued on September 2, 2025, by Provincial Chairman Sengerai Manyanga , removed Gwashure from all association structures in Chiredzi District. Gwashure, a long-time FG28 activist and rabbi, had been a staunch supporter of Mnangagwa since 2009, but his outspoken promotion of the FG28 Agenda—seen by some as a self-styled platform—appeared to challenge the party’s established hierarchy.

ZANU–PF merchandise

Zimbabwean fashion and clothing

 

Manyanga reportedly told party officials, “This decision is necessary to uphold discipline, unity, and loyalty within the party. No one is above the values that Zanu PF represents, and deviations cannot be tolerated.”

According to party sources, Gwashure’s growing influence and alleged overtures toward Chiwenga’s camp sparked concern among hardliners, who viewed his actions as a direct threat to the Mnangagwa-aligned leadership in the region.

ZANU–PF merchandise

 

 

 

 

 

An unnamed economist and political analyst told this reporter, “Gwashure’s removal shows how fragile internal democracy has become in Zanu PF. The party punishes those who try to bring new ideas or align with alternative leadership. This is less about loyalty and more about controlling the narrative.”

  • Share: