Chiwenga’s Reluctance to Assume Power and Zimbabwe’s Political Future

The political dynamics in Zimbabwe continue to unfold with a complex web of power struggles and intrigue. As ZANU PF’s internal politics evolves, one name consistently emerges—Vice President Constantino Chiwenga. Though many expected Chiwenga to have an insatiable desire for leadership after his role in ousting Mugabe in 2017, recent revelations suggest otherwise.

Dr. Walter Mzembi, former Foreign Affairs Minister under Mugabe, painted a starkly different picture of the General’s ambitions. Chiwenga, according to Mzembi, had the opportunity to take the presidency during the coup but declined it. This revelation comes from resurfaced threads on X (formerly Twitter), where Mzembi delved into the intricate details of Zimbabwe’s 2017 political upheaval.

Contrary to popular belief, Chiwenga’s refusal to step into the presidency showcases a different side to his character—one that contradicts the image of a power-hungry military leader. It raises profound questions about Chiwenga’s vision for Zimbabwe and whether he was ever keen to lead the country at all.

While Mnangagwa ascended to power, largely due to Chiwenga’s military intervention, Mzembi believes the Vice President never harbored a strong desire to dethrone Mugabe. In fact, Chiwenga’s involvement seemed more like a reactionary move influenced by others, rather than a calculated coup to seize control. This narrative provides a fresh lens through which to examine the motives behind Zimbabwe’s political transition in 2017.

Interestingly, as Mnangagwa’s current term is expected to end in 2028, succession talks within ZANU PF are gaining momentum. Chiwenga, by all measures, is next in line. However, Mnangagwa’s alleged attempts to extend his stay in power could complicate matters. The brewing tension over succession within the ruling party raises concerns about Zimbabwe’s political stability.

Mnangagwa, known for employing shrewd political maneuvers, is reportedly seeking to cement his position well beyond the constitutional limit. Whether Chiwenga will once again play a pivotal role in determining the future leadership of Zimbabwe remains to be seen. The Vice President’s earlier reluctance to take over may either bolster his current standing or complicate his path to the presidency.

Mzembi’s insights from the period of the coup also reveal a degree of regret from Chiwenga regarding his involvement. The former Foreign Affairs Minister noted that Chiwenga might have been misled by other forces within the political arena. His reflections on the coup suggest a man burdened with the consequences of dragging the military into Zimbabwe’s political mess. This adds another layer of complexity to Chiwenga’s image.

Chiwenga’s aloofness in the aftermath of the coup and his seeming detachment from the ongoing political chaos highlight the internal struggles that continue to plague ZANU PF. If Chiwenga did indeed refuse the presidency when it was offered to him by Mugabe, it points to a deeper understanding of the country’s political landscape—one that perhaps favors a more gradual rise to power rather than an immediate takeover.

Zimbabwe’s political future remains uncertain, especially with internal wrangling over succession. Mnangagwa’s grip on power has so far remained firm, but the ever-present question of who will succeed him looms large. If Chiwenga, as suggested by Mzembi, truly lacks the ambition to take the reins, the question then becomes—who is ready to lead Zimbabwe into its next chapter?

The nation has paid a heavy price for its political mismanagement, and the road ahead remains fraught with challenges. Whether Zimbabwe’s future lies in Chiwenga’s hands or another leader from within ZANU PF, the decisions made in the coming years will determine the trajectory of the country.

Mzembi’s reflections add valuable context to the 2017 coup, presenting Chiwenga not as a man driven by power, but as one caught in the crosshairs of history. His reluctance to assume the presidency could have been a missed opportunity for a different course for Zimbabwe. However, with Mnangagwa’s strategies to stay in office and the Vice President’s seemingly passive role in recent political developments, the country may be poised for another political standoff.

As the ZANU PF conference proceeds, all eyes will be on Chiwenga and Mnangagwa. Will Chiwenga, the reluctant leader, finally assert his claim to power, or will Zimbabwe’s leadership crisis deepen further?

Sources indicate that the ruling party’s discussions during the conference will heavily focus on these questions, setting the stage for Zimbabwe’s political direction in the next decade. With Mnangagwa’s term set to end in 2028, the nation watches closely for signs of a potential power struggle, waiting to see if Chiwenga will play a decisive role. The stakes are higher than ever for ZANU PF, and Zimbabwe itself.

ZwNews