Mutsvangwa tells Chiwenga-linked faction to wait for 2030

Zanu-PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa has firmly told a rival faction within the ruling party eyeing the presidency to wait until after 2030, effectively shutting down early succession ambitions and intensifying internal political tensions.

His remarks come amid reported divisions within Zanu-PF over the Constitutional Amendment Bill Number 3, which has become a focal point of disagreement between factions aligned to different power centres in the party.

The tensions are understood to involve a group aligned to Vice President Constantino Chiwenga and sections of war veterans who are opposed to any perceived extension of President Emmerson Mnangagwa's rule beyond the current constitutional timeline.

Speaking at party headquarters, Mutsvangwa dismissed calls for early succession manoeuvres.

"If you have ambitions as a faction or whoever trying to take over from him just wait for 2030," he said. "It will still be there just make sure you keep healthy and… maintain your standing in the party."

He added that internal contestation over leadership should not disrupt ongoing constitutional processes.

"Do not try to make noises between now and 2030 because the door has been closed," he said.

Mutsvangwa also said the party was deliberately avoiding excessive public commentary on the amendment process, noting that internal structures were handling consultations linked to Parliament.

"We have a team, our commissariat department and administrative department. They are part of the consultations of Parliament," he said, adding that the matter remains within an ongoing legislative process.

The remarks underscore growing political undercurrents within Zanu-PF as debate over constitutional amendments continues to fuel speculation about succession dynamics ahead of the next political cycle.