Mliswa flees to South Africa?

Published: 2 hours ago

Outspoken former legislator Temba Mliswa has reportedly fled Zimbabwe for South Africa amid escalating political tensions following his public accusations against Vice President Constantino Chiwenga of corruption and being misled by his wife, Miniyothabo Baloyi.

Mliswa recently made headlines when he declared businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei as President Emmerson Mnangagwa's natural successor, effectively sidelining Chiwenga's prospects of assuming the presidency. In a leaked audio recording of a phone conversation with controversial businessman Agrippa "Bopela" Masiyakurima, Mliswa alleged that Chiwenga is under the influence of his wife, leading him to overestimate his remaining military influence.

Once a staunch critic of Tagwirei, Mliswa defended his change in stance, stating he has no permanent enemies, only permanent interests. "The person who is going to take over from Mnangagwa is someone he trusts, who will protect his interests, Tagwirei," he said, stressing the importance of aligning with those in power to safeguard both economic and political interests.

Mliswa also accused Chiwenga of corruption and pursuing personal vendettas, including disputes over unreceived wedding gifts. He further claimed that Chiwenga's recent attempt to have businessman Wicknell Chivayo arrested was less about anti-corruption and more about a personal fallout over unfulfilled financial promises tied to his wedding to Baloyi. According to Mliswa, Chivayo had been asked to provide six Rolls Royces and US$250,000 for the wedding, with additional funds and gifts allegedly supplied for the couple's honeymoon at the Four Seasons Resort in Seychelles, shopping in South Africa, and property for Chiwenga's children. A remaining sum of US$150,000 reportedly became a major point of contention.

Once considered the most powerful man in Zimbabwe after orchestrating the November 2017 military intervention that toppled Robert Mugabe and installed Mnangagwa, Chiwenga is now widely viewed as having lost influence since retiring from the army to serve as deputy president. Despite perceptions that the military has shifted allegiance to the Mnangagwa–Tagwirei faction within Zanu-PF, Chiwenga reportedly continues to believe he maintains significant sway.

Mliswa's remarks and subsequent departure have intensified speculation over the evolving power dynamics within Zanu-PF, particularly regarding succession and the balance of influence between the Mnangagwa–Tagwirei faction and the Chiwenga camp.

Adding to the drama, Mliswa's rural homestead in Shurugwi was allegedly set ablaze by unknown assailants early Wednesday morning, resulting in the loss of property valued between US$120,000 and US$200,000. At the time of the fire, Mliswa, who also serves as headman of Mliswa Village, was not at home.

The blaze, which destroyed one bedroom hut, was first noticed by a resident maid shortly after midnight on 2 October 2025. One of the three occupants present at the homestead reported hearing a vehicle pass nearby and only became aware of the fire about 30 minutes later, by which time the hut was fully engulfed.

The incident comes just a week after Mliswa publicly accused Vice President Chiwenga of politically motivated actions aimed at undermining President Mnangagwa's leadership while protecting corrupt practices. Responding to the attack, Mliswa posted on X, formerly Twitter, saying, "I have always known that corruption fights back and am prepared for everything. Last night they sneaked and burnt my house in Shurugwi all because I asked for accountability and transparency. Thank God no one was hurt."

Authorities have launched investigations into the cause of the fire, while Mliswa has vowed that the incident will not deter his campaign for transparency and accountability in government, reiterating his commitment to exposing corruption despite rising risks.
- BD

Tags: Mliswa,