By Kovedzayi Takawira & Pride Muzarabani
Harare- ZANU PF has taken a hard stance against alleged attempts by businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei to influence its internal politics, with the ruling party declaring that leadership must be earned through democratic processes rather than wealth or influence.
Speaking at a press conference in Harare today, ZANU PF spokesperson Ambassador Christopher Mutsvangwa blasted the party’s Harare Province for its controversial resolution to co-opt Tagwirei into the Central Committee—a move he described as “shameless” and a direct violation of the party’s constitution.
“Leadership in ZANU PF is determined by the vote, not by money or peddled influence. For Harare Province, once beaten, twice shy. If there was an issue of money or attempts to peddle influence, it really doesn’t pay,” Mutsvangwa said.
Reports have surfaced alleging that Tagwirei distributed vehicles to senior provincial officials in an attempt to secure his appointment.
Mutsvangwa confirmed that the party has ordered the return of all vehicles by the end of this month, warning that ZANU PF will not tolerate shortcuts to power.
“If you think you can buy all the voters of Zimbabwe, think again. If you try to manipulate the party electoral colleges, we will wave the rule book against you—or simply broaden the electorate of ZANU PF,” he said.
He further challenged Tagwirei’s alleged methods, saying,
“If you thought you could buy Central Committee members, we will tell you to go and try buying the DCC and see if you can distribute cars across the whole of Zimbabwe.”
Mutsvangwa emphasized that those seeking power through wealth must never forget that ZANU PF created the very environment for their success.
“What I am saying is this: ZANU PF is a party of structure and organization. When we vote, we do not rely on electoral colleges; we vote with the population of Zimbabwe,” he said.
He warned that entertaining money-driven influence could lead to weak leadership that fails at national elections.
“ZANU PF cannot afford to blink when it comes to popular appeal. If we allow money to determine leadership, we will get false leaders who will lose the 2028 elections because national elections are won through mass universal suffrage,” Mutsvangwa said.
He also criticized the origins of wealth displayed by some individuals, suggesting that their success stems from the foundations laid by the party.
“We have no illusions about where people got their money. That money came from this building (ZANU PF). During Ian Smith’s time, no one had such money. People should not try to use money against this party,” he said.
“All those people were nothing before the liberation struggle. The first thing they should do is respect the party that made them who they are and not try to use money whose origins lie in the stewardship of this party,” he added.
“This cannot work, and I am confidently saying this as the spokesperson of the party. I want the people of Zimbabwe to know they should remain confident in ZANU PF,” Mutsvangwa concluded
