HARARE – Zanu-PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa declared that Zimbabweans must “stop picking heroes from the streets and foisting them on the people,” in a sharp rebuke aimed at controversial businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei.
Speaking at a press conference in Harare on Monday, Mutsvangwa also emphasised the ruling party’s rejection of Tagwirei’s alleged presidential ambitions and his recent attempt to join the Zanu-PF Central Committee.
Mutsvangwa’s remarks were part of a broader attack on Tagwirei, whom he described as “unelectable” and accused of attempting to “buy power” within the party through lavish handouts.
“Don’t attempt to use money and cars,” Mutsvangwa stated.
“If you buy the leadership of Harare province are you also going to go and buy Bulawayo province, Mutare, Mashonaland Central and so on?”
The spokesperson confirmed that a recommendation from Harare province to co-opt Tagwirei into the Central Committee had been reviewed and subsequently rejected due to a failure to meet eligibility criteria.
Mutsvangwa further stated that Zanu-PF prioritises “long-term commitment over quick influence,” contrasting it with Tagwirei’s alleged tactics of distributing vehicles and cash to secure loyalty.
He asserted that such methods are “not sustainable” and warned that elections are ultimately decided by the “masses” of Zimbabwe, not by “party elites or cash.”
“Zanu-PF made Tagwirei. Tagwirei can’t be bigger than the party. Zimbabweans must stop picking heroes from the streets and foisting them on the people,”Mutsvangwa noted.
“This cannot work, and I am confidently saying this as the spokesperson of the party.
“The people of Zimbabwe should remain confident in Zanu-PF. We are not for sale.”
He insisted that the businessman’s wealth and empire were a product of Zanu-PF’s political leadership since the liberation struggle, suggesting that those seeking leadership must do so by engaging with the people, not through financial inducements.
The Zanu-PF party has been plunged into factional battles linked to succession disputes. President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term of office is expected to end in 2028.
While Tagwirei has been seen as a potential contender, both Mutsvangwa and Vice President Constantino Chiwenga have publicly voiced their opposition, with Chiwenga previously labeling businessmen like Tagwirei as “parasites” feeding off the state.
Chiwenga is widely considered the frontrunner in the succession race.
Tagwirei made billions from big contracts with the government of Zimbabwe. His deals are often considered “corrupt” because they have not been subjected to tender.
Tagwirei and his wife Sandra are also listed on the US sanctions as punishment for aiding the Zimbabwean government in human rights abuses and corruption.
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