'Tagwirei funded the military in 2017 coup that toppled Mugabe'

Published: 8 hours ago

Zanu-PF's Secretary for Legal Affairs, Ziyambi Ziyambi, has disclosed that controversial businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei played a financial role in the military-led ousting of former President Robert Mugabe during the November 2017 coup.

Speaking at a recent Zanu-PF politburo meeting, Ziyambi revealed that Tagwirei, at the request of then Commander of the Defence Forces, Constantino Chiwenga, provided US$1.6 million, supplied fuel, and catered for soldiers' basic provisions to support Operation Restore Legacy.

"There is no denying that Operation Restore Legacy had significant backing. A considerable amount of resources was invested to guarantee its success. It is unlikely that an operation of this scale could have achieved its goals without substantial financial support," Ziyambi said.

He detailed that Tagwirei contributed five million litres of fuel, food, and other provisions for soldiers, in addition to one million litres of fuel and US$1.6 million to the party. Ziyambi stressed that the coup's success cannot be credited to a few individuals alone.

"Any assertions suggesting otherwise are aimed at distorting the historical narrative for personal and political gain," he added.

Tagwirei, a known Zanu-PF benefactor, has recently faced accusations of leveraging his proximity to President Emmerson Mnangagwa to secure government tenders. He has also been targeted by former Zanu-PF member and fugitive Blessed Geza, who claims Tagwirei has captured the state and perpetuated corruption. Tagwirei has not publicly responded to these allegations.

Ziyambi warned against the narrative that only a select few sacrificed for Operation Restore Legacy.

"It is denied that only a few individuals, particularly the writers of this document, sacrificed their lives for the attainment of Operation Restore Legacy. Zimbabweans from all walks of life rose and participated in and supported Operation Restore Legacy," he said.

He urged recognition of the collective effort behind the coup, cautioning that claims of individual heroism undermine the broader contribution of many who participated in the historic event.
- NewZimbabwe

Tags: Mugabe,