MIDWEEK REPORTER
MASVINGO-The US$80 000 poured into the Zanu PF Masvingo Province by wealthy businessman and Central Committee member, Kudakwashe Tagwirei meant for operations has caused serious divisions in the revolutionary party.
Provincial executive members who spoke to The Midweek Watch on condition of anonymity for fear of being fired from the party alleged that the national secretary for security Lovemore Matuke and provincial chairperson, Rabson Mavhenyengwa of controlling the distribution of the money and favouring their close associates.
The $80 000 was reportedly deposited into the province’s account two weeks ago.
“The money is being used to advance certain agendas and one faction is benefiting from the donation. Remember there could be provincial elections any time and names are being thrown around and those are the people benefiting from the largesse who are close to the chairperson and Politiburo member Matuke,” said the disgruntled member.
The member divulged names of people alleged to be benefiting from the money and being strategically positioned for certain posts in the province.
When contacted for a comment Matuke acknowledged the donation but said he was not the best person to talk about the money donated to the province.
“Talk to the provincial spokesperson about those issues he is best placed to comment,’ said Matuke.
Efforts to get a comment from Zanu PF provincial spokesperson, Pepukai Chiwewe were unsuccessful as his mobile phone was not reachable.
Mavhenyengwa rubbished the allegations in an interview on the phone.
“Yes we got $80 000 from Tagwirei and as the chairperson I am hands on making sure that everyone benefits from the money. Tagwirei is not the first person to donate money to the party for operations and he will not be the last one, those who are talking about abuse of the money are making false allegations.
“Last time everybody was reimbursed their bus fare using that money and the money is used for party programs not to advance any factional agendas.
“We do not sideline anyone in the party, remember as the chairman I have my own style of leadership as the chairman and people should not compare me to anyone, just like the late Mugabe had his own style of leadership which is different from that of President Mnagagwa. You don’t expect the two to be the same.
“Those who are accusing me of abusing Tagwirei’s donation are just being economic with the truth,” said Mavhenyengwa.
