Former Zanu-PF national political commissar Saviour Kasukuwere has criticised President Emmerson Mnangagwa for distributing luxury vehicles to senior military officers, accusing him of neglecting national priorities.
Writing on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Kasukuwere mocked the move, comparing it unfavourably to former Reserve Bank governor Gideon Gono’s farm mechanisation programme.
“President has been reduced to a car dealer! He is not attending to any serious matters of state, but distributing toys! At least Gono aipa ma tractors for production! How the mighty have fallen,” Kasukuwere posted.
Mnangagwa recently handed out 102 vehicles to lieutenant colonels and colonels in Harare, a development government officials framed as a way to improve conditions of service for army personnel. The Information ministry said the allocation would “bridge a significant gap in the conditions of service for senior officers, ensuring they receive their entitlements, including vehicles, ultimately enhancing their welfare and operational effectiveness.”
However, Zanu-PF insiders claimed the move was politically motivated. According to party sources, the distribution came just weeks after a heated clash between Mnangagwa and his deputy, Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga, over corruption allegations linked to business figures close to the President.
Fearing growing discontent within the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and potential threats to his leadership, Mnangagwa reportedly mobilised resources to appease the army. Sources said the military had earlier submitted a dossier outlining poor living conditions in barracks and long-overdue service vehicles.
Observers say the handout underscores the mounting tension within Zanu-PF and between Mnangagwa and the army, with the 83-year-old leader increasingly reliant on patronage to consolidate his grip on power.
- online
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