Tensions are rising in the ruling Zanu-PF party ahead of its crucial annual conference to be held in the resort town of Victoria Falls.
The party has been thrown into a crisis as most provinces have voted to bring back the controversial women’s quota system that might jeopardize Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa chances of elevation to the presidential seat.
Harare province, Mashonaland East, Mashonaland West, Mashonaland Central and Bulawayo have all voted to support the quota system.
Only Mnangangwa’s strongholds of Masvingo and Midlands are holding out. Midlands has counter-punched and is calling on President Robert Mugabe to dissolve the national disciplinary committee accusing it of allegedly targeting Mnangagwa’s allies.
Another known Mnangangwa ally, Chris Mutsvangwa, is also on the ropes as the rival faction known as Generation 40 (G40) is calling for his expulsion for alleged corruption and dealing with foreign governments.
Mutsvangwa has hit back at party political commissar Saviour Kasukuwere allegedly linked to G40 accusing him of lacking liberation war credential to head the key portfolio he is holding.
Despite all the snipping and trading of barbs, party spokesman Simon Khaya Moyo said the party is ready for the conference.
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Interview With Simon Khaya Moyo on Zanu PF Conference