Published: 2 hours ago

The battle to succeed President Emmerson Mnangagwa has taken a dramatic turn after controversial politician Temba Mliswa was recorded outlining plans to decampaign Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga, allegedly funded by a rival.

The WhatsApp recording, confirmed as authentic by both Mliswa and businessman Agrippa Masiyakurima, also known as Bopela, reveals that Mliswa received cash from businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei to campaign for his succession ambitions. In the call, Mliswa reportedly tried to recruit Masiyakurima into the scheme, which has gone viral on social media.

Masiyakurima accused Mliswa of launching a "sponsored hatchet job" against Chiwenga, warning that money and cars provided by influential business figures, or "zvigananda," were being used to manipulate the succession race at the expense of national interests. He said he refused to take the funds, citing ethical objections.

Mliswa, however, defended himself on social media, insisting the call was about offering business advice and not a political conspiracy. He denied any wrongdoing, emphasizing his stance against corruption.

Amid the controversy, Mliswa's rural home in Shurugwi, Midlands province, was reportedly torched by unknown assailants on Wednesday night. While the motive remains unclear, Mliswa claims the attack was retaliation for his anti-corruption stance.

The incident adds a new layer of tension to the ongoing Zanu-PF succession struggle, highlighting the increasingly personal and dangerous stakes in the race to succeed Mnangagwa.
- online