Liz Tsvangirai Resurfaces at Grace Mugabe’s Birthday Party
Harare, Zimbabwe – Elizabeth macheka, widow of the late former Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai, made a notable public appearance on saturday, attending the 60th birthday celebration of former First Lady grace Mugabe at a private venue in Harare’s Borrowdale Brooke neighborhood. The event has sparked speculation about potential shifts in Zimbabwe’s political landscape.
The exclusive gathering drew a diverse group of prominent figures, including Second Lady Miniyothabo “Minnie” Baloyi (wife of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga), Zanu PF spokesperson Chris Mutsvangwa and his wife Monica, and Grace Mugabe’s brother, Mike Bimha, former Zanu PF National Political Commissar, accompanied by his wife Tsitsi. The attendance of individuals from across the political spectrum is being closely watched.
Grace Mugabe’s birthday marks a rare return to public life for the former First Lady, whose influence within Zanu PF’s Generation 40 (G40) faction was curtailed following the November 2017 military intervention that led to the removal of her husband, Robert mugabe, from power. Prior to the coup, Grace Mugabe was widely considered a potential successor to her husband, actively campaigning and holding rallies across the country.
Known for her extravagant lifestyle – earning her the moniker “Gucci Grace” – Mugabe has largely remained out of the public eye in recent years, facing legal challenges related to property disputes in South Africa, allegations of assault (specifically, the 2017 incident involving a Johannesburg hotel employee), and efforts to maintain diplomatic immunity. The South African Police Service investigated the assault allegations, but diplomatic immunity hindered prosecution.
The presence of both Elizabeth Tsvangirai and Grace Mugabe at the same event is seen by political analysts as possibly meaningful. While neither has issued a public statement regarding their intentions, their joint appearance alongside key figures from both the ruling Zanu PF party and opposition circles suggests a possible desire to remain engaged in Zimbabwe’s evolving political dynamics.The event took place at a private residence owned by a prominent businessman with close ties to both Mugabe and Chiwenga.
Observers note that in Zimbabwe’s ofen unpredictable political climate,even seemingly symbolic gestures can carry substantial weight. The reappearance of both women suggests they may not be ready to withdraw entirely from public life, potentially signaling future political activity. The birthday celebration reportedly included performances by several local musicians, and the guest list exceeded 100 attendees.
