Zanu PF’s internal power struggles are becoming increasingly evident, with the party’s primary elections being manipulated to consolidate factional control ahead of crucial by-elections. The party has nullified the results of its Insiza North primary election, citing failure to meet minimum standards. This move has exposed deepening factional tensions within the ruling party.
The Insiza North primary election was won by Matabeleland South Youth League chairperson Moses Langa, who secured 2,478 votes. However, insiders allege that the primary was marred by procedural violations and behind-the-scenes maneuvering by rival camps. Similar allegations have been made in Masvingo province, where senior officials face accusations of stuffing pre-filled ballot boxes to rig the vote. A petition lodged on April 26, 2025, accuses provincial secretary for commissariat Brian Munyoro and Chiredzi District DDC PC Daniel Mawere of electoral malpractice.
Analysts warn that the primary elections have become battlegrounds for factional supremacy, with outcomes manipulated to weaken internal challengers ahead of the 2028 general election. The internal contestation has overshadowed preparations for the June 28 by-elections, triggered by the death of Insiza North MP Farai Taruvinga and the expulsion of Gutu East MP Benjamin Ganyiwa. Senior Zanu PF officials are reportedly aligned with either President Emmerson Mnangagwa or Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, further complicating the party’s internal dynamics.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) is under renewed scrutiny, with civil society groups and opposition parties fearing that the culture of electoral fraud within Zanu PF could spill over into national contests. The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) and other opposition outfits face an uphill battle in the upcoming polls due to sustained arrests of their leaders, harassment of activists, and a closing democratic space. The outcome of the by-elections and the 2028 general election will be crucial in determining the future of Zimbabwe’s politics.
Zanu PF’s internal power struggles and allegations of electoral manipulation have raised concerns about the party’s commitment to democratic principles. The party’s actions have sparked fears that the democratic space in Zimbabwe is shrinking, and that the rule of law is being undermined. The international community is also likely to be watching the situation closely, given the implications for Zimbabwe’s stability and development.
The internal conflicts within Zanu PF and the allegations of electoral manipulation have significant implications for Zimbabwe’s politics. The outcome of the by-elections and the 2028 general election will be crucial in determining the future of the country. It remains to be seen whether Zanu PF will prioritize democratic principles or continue to prioritize factional interests.
source-zimeye
