ZANU PF Official Downplays Tagwirei’s Influence
Party Commissar Declares Tenderpreneur a ‘Mere Supporter’ Amidst Scrutiny
ZANU PF National Political Commissar **Munya Machacha** has clarified the role of prominent figure **Kuda Tagwirei**, stating he is no more than a party supporter and member. The remarks came during a contentious interview with ZimEye’s **Simba Chikanza**, addressing the legitimacy of **Tagwirei**’s co-option into party structures.
Controversy Over Co-option Process
During the exchange, **Chikanza** questioned the basis of **Tagwirei**’s co-option, specifically referencing a vehicle purportedly gifted to the party and alleged deviations from ZANU PF’s constitution. **Machacha** defended the action, asserting that Harare Province had the prerogative to select its representatives.
“He was co opted, by Harare Province, if they choose the person that they want who are you to say he mustn’t be co-opted?”
—Munya Machacha, ZANU PF National Political Commissar
**Machacha** challenged **Chikanza** to provide evidence from the ZANU PF constitution that prohibited **Tagwirei**’s co-option, dismissing the journalist’s claims as unfounded.
Allegations of Internal Opposition and Procedural Flaws
The interview also touched upon alleged internal opposition to **Tagwirei**, with **Chikanza** questioning **Machacha** about the absence of figures like General **Chiwenga** from such discussions. **Machacha** stated his lack of awareness regarding any internal dissent, implying **Chikanza** possessed insider knowledge beyond party leadership.
Further inquiries focused on **Tagwirei**’s removal from a previous meeting and the validity of documents allegedly outlining appointment qualifications. **Machacha** categorically denied the existence of such requirements as presented by **Chikanza**, labelling them as originating from “your own head.”
“So all a person needs to enter is to become a supporter? So all some of us need to do is to just become supporters and we have entered the structures soon after that?”
—Simba Chikanza, ZimEye Journalist
**Tagwirei**’s long-standing support for the party, including efforts to stabilize the economy during periods of international sanctions, was highlighted by **Machacha**. He emphasized **Tagwirei**’s dedication through “thick and thin.”
The debate over political appointments and adherence to party rules comes at a time when transparency in governance is increasingly scrutinized globally. For instance, Transparency International’s 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index highlighted the importance of robust internal checks and balances within political organizations to maintain public trust (Transparency International 2023).
The conversation concluded abruptly, leaving questions about the specifics of **Tagwirei**’s party standing and the internal processes of ZANU PF unresolved.
