Chiwenga Says Zanu PF Is Repeating Mugabe’s Mistakes as Mohadi Falls Ill at Conference
Story By Staff Reporter
President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga accused each other of engaging in “mazvake mazvake” (individualistic and arbitrary actions) at the Zanu PF Annual National People’s Conference in Chinhoyi as the ruling party’s succession battle intensifies.
Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga has suggested that Zanu PF is repeating the mistakes of the Robert Mugabe era. He made the remarks at the Zanu PF Annual National People’s Conference in Chinhoyi. His comments were indirect, but they were clearly aimed at the party’s leadership under President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Chiwenga Questions Internal Democracy
Chiwenga suggested that the ruling party’s internal democratic processes have been hijacked. He said those responsible are subverting the popular will. As a result, his speech added to the open rift over succession.
The address also called for what it described as “brutal and honest self-appraisal.” Chiwenga asked whether the party’s resolutions truly come from the people. He also asked whether its conferences capture the voices of the grassroots. In addition, he asked whether the party understands what ordinary people aspire to.
He said Zanu PF’s strength has always come from the people. According to him, it is a people’s party, forged through sweat, toil and blood.
Mnangagwa Calls for Unity and Discipline
Mnangagwa took a different tone in his opening address. He urged members to stay united, disciplined and focused on results. He also said leadership is a responsibility to serve. Therefore, he asked members to advance party policies together, without divisions or individualistic approaches.
More than 8,000 delegates have gathered at Chinhoyi University of Technology. They are attending the 23rd Zanu PF National People’s Conference. The theme is “From Resolutions to Results: Consolidating Economic Development and Deepening Empowerment Towards Vision 2030.”
The President also paid tribute to the Chinhoyi Seven and the late founding President Robert Mugabe. He honoured other liberation heroes from Mashonaland West as well. According to him, their sacrifices helped bring independence and the return of land.
Furthermore, Mnangagwa promoted the Chitepo School of Ideology. He said it is open to the private sector through tailor-made training programmes. He added that progress needs a common direction and disciplined implementation. In his words, the nation must move forward together, step by step.
Mohadi Assisted Off Stage
Meanwhile, Vice-President Kembo Mohadi was assisted off stage during the conference. Reports said he became unwell. Mohadi had been expected to give the vote of thanks after Mnangagwa’s address.
Party chairperson Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri confirmed that he was walked off stage. She cited “urgent developments.” However, the circumstances and his condition were not immediately known.
What Happens Next
The conference runs until Saturday, 17 October 2026. Delegates will therefore spend the coming days on resolutions. Chiwenga’s remarks, however, are likely to shape much of the discussion. They also raise a bigger question. Can Zanu PF turn its resolutions into results while its leaders openly disagree?
