A secret recording has surfaced, capturing ZANU PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa making scathing remarks about Vice President Constantino Chiwenga.
In the leaked audio, Mutsvangwa reportedly describes Chiwenga as “harsh, unelectable, and lacking formal education,” even mocking his pronunciation difficulties.
The recording, released by UK-based investigative group Dug Up, sheds light on rising tensions within ZANU PF as the 2028 elections draw closer.
Mutsvangwa accuses Chiwenga of seeking to be handpicked as President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s successor rather than going through an electoral process.
Mutsvangwa Criticises Chiwenga’s Succession Ambitions
Mutsvangwa alleges that Chiwenga is attempting to manoeuvre his way into the presidency without securing the support of party structures.
“This man wants to be declared successor while at the same time trying to push out the president. How does that even work?” He reportedly questions in the recording.
He insists that Mnangagwa favours a competitive internal election rather than endorsing a successor outright.
“Mugabe used to appoint his deputies, but this time the President insists on elections. That is the democratic way.”
Speculation over Chiwenga’s succession bid has been ongoing, with some reports suggesting that an agreement was made following the 2017 coup to eventually hand him power.
However, recent developments indicate Mnangagwa may not be willing to uphold that arrangement.
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Allegations of Cruelty and Controversial Legal Battles
Mutsvangwa also takes aim at Chiwenga’s personal life, referring to his ongoing legal dispute with ex-wife Marry Mubaiwa.
Mubaiwa, who suffers from a severe medical condition and has undergone multiple amputations, remains unable to travel for treatment due to legal restrictions.
“Half of Zimbabwe’s voters are women, yet he subjected his former wife to such suffering. She has lost limbs, and he refuses to let her see their children,” Mutsvangwa reportedly says.
“When the president tried to offer some relief, he blocked it. His reputation for cruelty will cost him dearly; he knows he can’t win a free election, which is why he wants to avoid one.”
Mubaiwa has previously suggested that Chiwenga’s PhD thesis from the University of KwaZulu-Natal was allegedly written by presidential spokesperson George Charamba, raising further questions about his academic credentials.
Mutsvangwa Questions Chiwenga’s Educational Background
In the leaked conversation, Mutsvangwa also challenges Chiwenga’s intellectual capabilities, arguing that military service does not equate to academic achievement.
“If you want to tell if someone had formal schooling, just listen to how they pronounce certain letters,” he says mockingly.
He further claims, “The letter R is learnt naturally, but the letter L is taught. If someone struggles with that, it speaks volumes about their education.”
Although Chiwenga obtained a PhD in Ethics from the University of KwaZulu-Natal in 2025, unverified allegations persist that he did not personally author his thesis.
Factional Battles Heating Ahead of 2028 Elections
The leaked audio signals are deepening divisions within ZANU PF, with internal battles over succession intensifying. As the 2028 elections approach, this power struggle suggests the contest for Zimbabwe’s leadership remains highly contested.
