By Staff Reporter
Harare – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has abruptly sacked Apollonia Munzverengwi, a relative of his deputy Constantino Chiwenga, from her post as Mashonaland East Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution.
The dismissal, announced by Chief Secretary to the President Martin Rushwaya on Tuesday, offered no official explanation but has ignited speculation about intensifying factional battles within the ruling Zanu PF party.
Munzverengwi, appointed to the role in 2018, was replaced immediately by Hwedza North legislator Itayi Ndudzo.
In a terse statement, Rushwaya cited Section 108(1a) of Zimbabwe’s constitution but provided no rationale for the decision.
“His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Cde E.D Mnangagwa has, in terms of Section 108 (1a) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, removed Hon. Apollonia Munzverengwi from the Office of Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mashonaland east with immediate effect,” Rushwaya said.
The move comes amid mounting tensions between factions aligned with Mnangagwa and Chiwenga, the former military commander turned deputy president.
Political analysts link the dismissal to a broader power struggle over Mnangagwa’s alleged bid to extend his presidency beyond the constitutionally mandated two-term limit, which expires in 2028.
Chiwenga’s supporters have openly opposed such efforts, advocating instead for the vice president’s ascension to the top office.
Critics of Mnangagwa argue that Munzverengwi’s dismissal was far from a routine cabinet reshuffle.
They suggest that her familial ties to Chiwenga, combined with the timing of her removal, point to a strategic move by the incumbent to consolidate power in anticipation of a contentious succession battle.
Mnangagwa’s camp has reportedly mobilized grassroots campaigns to endorse a constitutional amendment extending term limits, a move critics denounce as a retreat from democratic reforms.
Meanwhile, Chiwenga loyalists argue that Mnangagwa’s 2017 rise to power—backed by a military coup ending Robert Mugabe’s 37-year rule—entitles their leader to a rightful succession.
Munzverengwi’s removal follows a pattern of recent dismissals targeting officials linked to Chiwenga, underscoring the party’s fragile unity.
Observers warn that the infighting risks destabilizing governance as Zimbabwe grapples with economic stagnation and international re-engagement efforts.
