…Did ED take heed of Makandiwa’s call to forgive Mzembi and Kasukuwere?
By Staff Reporter
Zimbabwe’s former Tourism and Foreign Affairs Minister Walter Mzembi who recently returned to the country after six years in self- imposed exile, sparked speculation about potential political realignments within the ruling Zanu PF party.
Mzembi allegedly met with President Emmerson Mnangagwa at State House in Harare on Wednesday June 11.
Some believe the meeting was to discuss critical issues, possibly engaging on behalf of Saviour Kasukuwere. Others think Mzembi might have abandoned ‘Passenger No. 34’ (Kasukuwere) and returned to the ruling party, signaling a potential reconciliation with ZANU PF.
The plot thickens as some wonder if President Mnangagwa’s willingness to meet Mzembi was a nod to Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa’s recent comments downplaying Mzembi’s perceived threat, suggesting that he may have taken the prophet’s advice to view Mzembi as harmless.
When contacted for comment on the reason why he was back and what they discussed with the President, Mzembi chose a diplomatic way of not responding telling this reporter that he would call back which he never did.
Further efforts to call the former Masvingo South legislator were futile as he did not answer calls nor respond to messages sent on his South African WhatsApp number.
Mzembi’s exile began in 2018, following a military coup that ousted Mugabe and brought Mnangagwa to power. As a key figure in Mugabe’s G40 faction, Mzembi faced corruption charges and claims of political persecution, which he denied.
A 2019 arrest warrant for alleged corruption charges related to misappropriating $2 million worth of televisions remains outstanding, raising questions about its validity. Despite this, Mzembi’s return suggests a possible shift in Zanu PF politics, potentially paving way for other exiled politicians to return.
Many believe he could have come back from South Africa where he was holed together with Savior Kasukuwere to negotiate for the team’s return in the country
Political analyst Dr. Wellington Gadzikwa believes that Mzembi’s return was a strategic move to stay home with assurances that he would support the establishment.
“Mzembi’s return may signal a shift in allegiance, with assurances of support for the establishment. Mzembi and others, like Professor Jonathan Moyo, have realized that change won’t come soon. “They’ve reassessed their opposition stance, opting to support the government instead. They thought there could be change soon, but have realized it won’t happen,” said Dr Gadzikwa.
Another political commentator Dr. Last Alfandika said Mzembi’s return may indicate political reconciliation or strategic realignment within Zanu PF.
“It shows us what we already know – the everlasting political bargaining where political interests and survival often override legal processes. His return raises questions about justice and public trust, particularly given he had an outstanding warrant of arrest,” said Dr Alfandika.
Dr. Arthur Fidelis Chikerema on his part said Mzembi and cabal had now finished all the riches they had acquired when they were in Zanu PF so they wanted to come back and replenish the supplies by rejoining the ruling party.
“They say it’s cold outside Zanu PF, and these guys, Mzembi and cabal, could have felt the cold and decided to come back. Remember they were surviving on savings they made during their time in Zanu PF and now they many now have nothing so getting back to Zanu PF was the only way to ensure they continue living the luxury life they are used to,” said Dr Chikerema.
He went on to say in politics there were no permanent enemies or friends but permanent interests. Mnangagwa could also have realized a decline in support for the party and decided to bring back the G40 rebels in the fold.
“In politics, there are no permanent enemies or friends, only permanent interests, Mnangagwa may have realized Mzembi and his team can help push the 2030 agenda, which they had previously opposed. With declining popularity, Zanu PF may be seeking to consolidate power by reuniting with rebel cadres,” said Dr Chikerema.
Rashweat Mukundu, a political commentator said once Zanu PF, always Zanu PF and so there was nothing amiss about Mzembi’s return not only to join the party but to enjoy the benefits that comes with being a member.
“ZANU PF members will always be Zanu PF members. The party comes with its trappings and opportunities to be close to the feeding trough and many senior members are entirely dependent on the party for survival and got what they have because of Zanu PF. So Mzembi’s coming back is exactly a survival move. He is not only negotiating for his return to the party but also how he can be brought back to the feeding trough,” said Mukundu.
As Mzembi navigates his return to Zimbabwean politics, the implications of his meeting with Mnangagwa and the future of his political career remain uncertain
