Tagwirei Accused of Using Wealth to Dismantle ZANU PF Structures

By Desmond Nleya and Shelton Muchena
Business tycoon Kudakwashe Tagwirei is facing renewed accusations of having used his financial influence to systematically weaken ZANU PF’s internal structures, with opposition leaders warning that the ruling party is being transformed into a network of personal loyalists aligned to President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Opposition leader Charlton Hwende said on Tuesday that Tagwirei’s growing political role had contributed to the disintegration of ZANU PF’s long-standing organisational framework.
Posting on X, Hwende wrote: “Chakanwirwa ichi chinhu! The destruction of structures was a well-calculated move. So sad.”
His remarks referred to what he described as choreographed rallies linked to Tagwirei and the ever-expanding network of Mnangagwa-affiliated organisations.
Meanwhile, Tagwirei’s growing public profile has also sparked legal and ethical questions. The businessman has recently been seen travelling in convoys of unregistered vehicles without number plates, behaviour critics say resembles that of a head of state.
Prominent lawyer and former opposition spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere took to X to challenge Transport Minister Felix Mhona over the matter.
*“Good morning Minister @MhonaFelix.
1. Why is Mr Tagwirei allowed to drive unregistered vehicles that bear no number plate and do not display vehicle licences?
2. Is Mr Tagwirei exempt from complying with the clear terms of the Road Traffic Act and attendant regulations?
3. Did you not launch a @PoliceZimbabwe blitz to curb such unlawful conduct?
4. Is there one law for @ZANUPF_Official and then another law for the rest of us? Please advise.”*
Mahere’s questions highlight growing concerns about Tagwirei’s status, his proximity to state power, and whether he is operating above the law.
Critics say the businessman’s wealth has enabled him to assume a quasi-presidential posture, further eroding the dividing line between the state, the ruling party, and private interests.

In addition, the rise of ED affiliates, many of which now operate with greater visibility and influence than official ZANU PF structures, had diluted the authority of the ruling party’s organs.
Analysts have echoed this sentiment, saying the recent reshuffles, demotions, and sidelining of several senior officials and politburo members indicate that the party is being reshaped into a personalised political vehicle.
“The question is how ED affiliates will continue to flourish after Mnangagwa relinquishes power,” one analyst noted. “The signs point to attempts at creating a political dynasty that outlives his presidency.”