Ruling Zanu PF bans Grace for life, expels several powerful figures

– Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF, through its central committee today resolved to expel and ban for life the first lady of the country Grace Mugabe, along with several powerful figures.

In what the party called ‘realignment’ and ‘self-cleansing’ exercise, over 18 powerful figures were expelled, while the President, Robert Mugabe was dismissed from his position as first secretary and leader.

Mugabe’s deputy, Phelekezela Mphoko, was expelled from the party as well, while other high-profile expulsions include Minister of Finance Igantius Chombo and Foreign Minister Walter Mzembi.

The country’s human resources manager, the Minister of Public Service, and Mugabe’s nephew, Patrick Zhuwao was also fired and banned for life from the party. Zhuwao told journalists yesterday that Robert Mugabe was willing to die for what is right.

Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Jonathan Moyo was fired for the second time in his Zanu PF career, while his friend Minister of Local Government Saviour Kasukuwere and his brother Tongai did not escape the chop either.

Powerful youth leaders Kudzai Chipanga Innocent Hamandishe joined the list, along with Minister of Energy and Power Development, Samuel Undenge, and Manicaland Provincial Affairs Minister Mandiitawepi Chimene.

Chipanga’s statement denouncing the military on Tuesday morning precipitated the aggressive reaction which saw the army moving to clip Mugabe’s wings.

Member of Parliament for Mberengwa East Makhosini Hlogwane was also expelled. Other high profile names include Sarah Mahoka, Eunice Sandi Moyo, Xavier Kazizi, Anastancia Ndlovhu, Dr Paul Chimedza, and Letwina Undenge.

All of those expelled were considered G40’s key members.

Highfields Member of Parliament, Psychology Maziwisa escaped the chop, and immediately took to twitter to congratulate Emmerson Mnangagwa who he addressed as President.

Maziwisa cancelled an interview with Al Jazeera. On twitter then, he lamented how he had missed out on an opportunity to tell the world just how amazing Grace Mugabe was.

Maynard Manyowa