In Masvingo District, ZANU PF members are unhappy about the return of former politburo member Dzikamai Mavhaire to the party.
Mavhaire, who was once the Minister of Energy, was introduced as a new member at a State House event with President Emmerson Mnangagwa last month, alongside his son and former MDC-T MP Oliver Chirume.
Members are upset because they believe the proper process for his reintegration was not followed. Normally, the district must recommend a former member’s return before it goes to the provincial and national executives. Some party insiders were surprised to see Mavhaire’s photos with top leaders without this formal recommendation.
Tawanda Dube, the chairperson of the Masvingo District Coordinating Committee, confirmed Mavhaire’s return but noted he hasn’t been formally introduced to the district. Dube said, “His admission came from the national executive, but we are glad he’s back.”
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Robson Mavhenyengwa, the provincial chair, defended the decision, stating that Mavhaire’s past as a politburo member justified the national executive’s involvement. He said, “If the President asks us to welcome someone back, we cannot refuse.”
Some believe Mavhaire may have avoided the district executive to prevent potential rejection, especially given his past ties to former CCC leader Nelson Chamisa. Mavhaire previously called for President Robert Mugabe’s resignation in 1997, leading to his expulsion from ZANU PF. After leaving, he reportedly sold oranges from a rundown vehicle.
Mavhaire’s history with ZANU PF has been rocky; he was expelled again in 2015 after losing his ministerial position. In 2022, he encouraged voters to support the opposition CCC, arguing that ZANU PF shouldn’t have an indefinite hold on power.
