Is Paul Tungwarara Deliberately Splitting ZANU-PF?

Paul Tungwarara’s fiery attacks inside ZANU-PF don’t seem accidental. They look like part of a calculated strategy to sow division. The real question is: why?

Echoes of Grace Mugabe

Many observers compare Tungwarara’s role to Grace Mugabe in 2014. Her public tirades weren’t just emotional outbursts—they were tactical weapons aimed at dismantling Joice Mujuru’s faction and clearing the way for Emmerson Mnangagwa whom she later isolated and attacked. Tungwarara appears to be playing a similar role today: the “attack dog” unleashed to weaken rivals ahead of a looming leadership battle.

Who’s the target?

Although Tungwarara lashes out broadly, one prominent target is Kuda Tagwirei, the billionaire with deep pockets and political influence. Tagwirei’s resources could fuel a rival bid for power. By loudly railing against “corruption” and stirring internal fights, Tungwarara may be working to corner Tagwirei and derail his ambitions.

The 2030 horizon

At the heart of this drama is succession. President Mnangagwa has signaled his intent to remain in power until 2030. Yet figures like Vice President Chiwenga may want to step in sooner. A fractured, chaotic party strengthens Mnangagwa’s hand. If every potential challenger looks weakened by infighting, the narrative becomes: “Only Mnangagwa can hold the party together.” Tungwarara’s mission seems to be manufacturing that chaos.

The risks ahead

It’s a dangerous gamble. The military and war veterans who backed Mnangagwa’s rise in 2017 are no longer united. Push the divisions too far, and they could rally behind another leader—or worse, trigger open confrontation. Tungwarara’s behaviour isn’t mere immaturity; it’s part of a deliberate plan to shape the battlefield for 2030, ensuring no rival is prepared to seize the throne.