Zimbabwe’s Vice President Kembo Mohadi has informed President Emmerson Mnangagwa of his intention to retire, citing health issues. Mohadi’s decision could trigger a significant reshuffle within the ruling Zanu-PF party and intensify succession battles.
Mohadi, 75, has been battling debilitating health issues for several years, which have impacted his public appearances. Notably, he collapsed during a lecture at the University of Zimbabwe in May 2024 and has been hospitalized on multiple occasions.
President Mnangagwa is reportedly considering appointing General Phillip Valerio Sibanda, the current Zimbabwe Defence Forces commander, as Mohadi’s replacement. This move could pit Sibanda against Second Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, a frontrunner to succeed Mnangagwa as the next Zanu-PF leader.
Other potential contenders include;
– Oppah Muchinguri Zvipinge Kashiri: Minister of Defence and Zanu PF National Chairperson, who currently holds the highest position in Zanu PF. Her appointment would fulfill the party’s constitutional requirement of having a female vice president.
– Former Zipra Cadre: A tradition within the party, following the 1987 Unity Accord, which stipulates one vice president should be from the military wing of ZAPU during the liberation struggle.
Mohadi’s departure could lead to a complex and contentious battle for the party’s leadership, with various factions jockeying for position. The appointment of Sibanda or another candidate could reshape the succession landscape and create a new era of political maneuvering within Zanu-PF. Mnangagwa’s spokesman George Charamba declined to comment.
source -zimlive
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