Mugabe fires Muchinguri, Chinamasa, Mushowe and 29 Mnangagwa allies – REPORT

November 6, 2017
| Report Focus News

Several unconfirmed reports are claiming that 32 key allies of under-siege Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa have been fired from Zanu PF, and will likely be expelled from government.

According to Khuluma Africa, the most high profile names are the Minister of Environment, Oppah Muchinguri, who is seen by many as a direct rival to Grace Mugabe, and the only woman who could bid for Vice Presidency and win.

Another, Patrick Chinamasa, is the Minister of Cyber Security, Threat Detection and Mitigation. He previously served as Justice Minister, then Finance Minister. Mugabe has in the past praised Chinamasa’s legal aptitude, and stated that he made him cyber security minister so that he could legally and effectively deal with cyber threats against the government.

Former Minister of Information Chris Mushowe is another high profile candidate. Mushowe’s case is however not curious. Mugabe has in the past attacked him, and asked him why the Herald was reporting negatively against Minister Saviour Kasukuwere.

When Mushowe was minister, state media took a balanced approach towards reporting, exposing G40 aligned ministers.

It is unclear which other members were fired.

Earlier today, it was reported that Mugabe had called a press conference to fire Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

However, by 14:00, the time initially stated, the national broadcaster ZBC TV was streaming cartoons instead.

A source within the office of the President expressed shock about reports concerning a press conference.

“There was never a presser. I have no idea where you got that idea. It is a Monday today. There was a security briefing and ED was in attendance. No presser was mentioned even.”

The source also poured water on the reports of the 32 members fired.

“Look, you are essentially asking me about another rumour. Has the rumour mill not failed you enough today” he quizzed in response.

Khuluma Afrika was not able to verify with the provincial leadership in Manicaland, if indeed these members had been fired.

 

Khuluma Afrika is a center for investigative journalism and political analysis.