ZANU PF Youth Leadership Clash: Machakaire Rebukes Paradza

The ZANU PF Youth League finds itself entangled in an internal leadership standoff as Secretary Tinoda Machakaire directs his deputy, John Paradza, to rescind a contentious circular immediately.

Machakaire recently announced a reshuffle within the Youth League’s National Executive Council through a circular issued on December 9, 2024, citing constitutional provisions to justify the decision.

Paradza responded by challenging the validity of the reshuffle, describing it as unconstitutional. He further urged affected officials to retain their positions, escalating tensions within the league.

In a sharply-worded letter dated December 10, Machakaire countered Paradza’s assertions, labeling his actions irregular and without legal foundation under the ZANU PF constitution.

Machakaire highlighted specific constitutional articles, including Article 10(88)(1), (2), and (13), which he claimed empowered him, as Secretary, to undertake such adjustments.

He also referenced Article 26(340)(1) and (2) to clarify the boundaries of the Deputy Secretary’s role, emphasizing Paradza had overstepped his authority by contesting the changes.

Machakaire’s response pointed to Paradza’s failure to cite constitutional provisions supporting his objections, accusing him of vague assertions that lacked legal grounding.

The Youth League Secretary emphasized that the reshuffle did not remove any members from the National Executive Council, asserting it complied with Article 26(336) and Article 26(338).

He underscored that the adjustments were meant to enhance the Youth League’s constitutional mandate and implement resolutions from the National People’s Conference.

Machakaire indicated that his actions were conducted under guidance from the party leadership, per Article 10(88)(1) and Article 26(339)(4).

The letter demanded Paradza retract his opposition immediately, warning that failure to do so would result in undisclosed “appropriate measures” being initiated against him.

This clash has exposed potential rifts within the ZANU PF Youth League, a key wing of the ruling party responsible for mobilizing younger party members.

The back-and-forth underscores the complexity of internal power dynamics and the importance of constitutional adherence within Zimbabwe’s dominant political party.

Observers suggest the dispute may impact the party’s internal cohesion, especially ahead of critical political milestones requiring collective efforts.

For now, Machakaire’s stern rebuke serves as a reminder of the hierarchical structures and rigid protocols that govern ZANU PF’s operational framework.