By Victor Fanuel
Harare – Prominent controversial business mogul Kudakwashe Tagwirei, who recently formalised his entry into Zanu PF’s political structures, has emerged as a central figure in efforts to unite the party’s deeply divided Harare province.
With internal tensions rise ahead of the 2026 provincial elections, Tagwirei is positioning himself as a peacemaker, while expanding his political footprint within the ruling party.
Tagwirei, long known for his proximity to Zanu PF power brokers, recently joined the party’s Central Committee, with insiders saying he is eyeing a seat in the Politburo the ruling party’s highest decision-making organ.
His growing political involvement has drawn both intrigue and concern, particularly in Harare province, where factional disputes have paralysed party operations and led to accusations of political persecution.
On Tuesday, Tagwirei made a significant overture by donating vehicles to Zanu PF Harare Province’s top 6 leadership, with further handovers expected for District Coordinating Committee (DCC) Chairpersons, provincial Political Commissars, and departmental heads.
Party insiders interpret the gesture as a calculated move to solidify his influence and win loyalty in a province plagued by infighting.
Beyond material support, Tagwirei has reportedly engaged several senior party figures in efforts to resolve growing tensions.
Notably, he has held private discussions with Harare provincial chairperson Godwills Masimirembwa in an attempt to de-escalate internal hostilities and chart a course toward unity.
The most visible flashpoint in the province involves the alleged persecution of Zanu PF Harare Youth Chairperson Emmanuel Mahatshi.
Insiders claim Masimirembwa orchestrated the seizure of Vito Bar, a council-owned property Mahatshi was leasing and facilitated its transfer to Zanu PF politician and businessman Blessed “JB” Kazembe said to be closely aligned with Masimirembwa.
The move, described as clandestine, is viewed by some as part of a broader effort to financially cripple potential rivals.
Similarly, former Harare South MP Shadreck Mashayamombe has found himself targeted.
Last year, there were efforts to suspend him from party activities by deputy chairperson Ephraim Fundukwa under disputed circumstances.
Politburo members later declared the suspension null and void, citing violations of internal disciplinary protocols.
There are also reports that Mashayamombe’s properties were targeted, allegedly under Masimbarambwa’s direction, reinforcing claims of a sustained campaign to weaken his political opponents.
“The misuse of party structures to eliminate rivals is undermining internal democracy,” a senior Zanu PF Politburo member said.
“It alienates capable cadres and creates unnecessary rifts that only serve to weaken the party.”
Zanu PF insiders believe Tagwirei is keen to restore unity by bringing together conflicting factions.
He is reportedly planning a high-level meeting that will involve Central Committee and Politburo members to address grievances and encourage a cohesive leadership vision for Harare province.
“Tagwirei sees Mashayamombe as a stabilising force and wants him back in a leadership role,” a Central Committee member said.
“His inclusion would broaden Tagwirei’s coalition and defuse the tensions within the provincial executive.”
Some party members have welcomed Tagwirei’s intervention, saying his push for consensus reflects President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s “inclusive vision.”
“Kuda Tagwirei’s commitment to resolving the Harare province tensions is commendable,” said one insider.
“His efforts are in line with the president’s inclusive vision to leave no one behind and promote unity within the party.”
Tagwirei’s growing political clout, however, has not gone unnoticed.
Analysts say his entry into formal Zanu PF structures marks a shift in power dynamics, where economic influence is fast translating into political capital.
“He is no longer just a financier in the background,” said another Zanu PF insider.
“He is recalibrating party loyalties and preparing for a long-term stake in Zanu PF’s future leadership.”
With internal elections fast approaching all eyes are on whether Tagwirei’s strategy of engagement and reconciliation can succeed in mending divisions, or whether it will provoke further pushback from entrenched factions.
For now, Tagwirei has firmly positioned himself at the heart of Zanu PF Harare province politics.
