The X post by Anesu (@Chivhu4lyfe) CLICK HERE for Original
On March 31, 2025, @Chivhu4lyfe accuses 34 individuals of being part of "ED's Grand Looting Mafia" and "Political Criminals," collectively referred to as "Zvigananda" (Shona for "thieves"). These individuals are blamed for Zimbabwe's economic collapse, healthcare crisis, and overall governance/administration failures.
The post ties into the broader context of the March 31, 2025, protests in Harare, where citizens expressed frustration over corruption, economic hardship, and President Emmerson Mnangagwa's potential term extension to 2030, which many view as a violation of the constitution. Below is an analysis of the named individuals, their roles, and their ties to Mnangagwa, based on the provided data and broader context.
Context of the Post and Protests
The post reflects deep public discontent in Zimbabwe, a country grappling with economic decline, hyperinflation, and a failing healthcare system. The term "Zvigananda" underscores the perception of systemic corruption, where a small elite is accused of plundering national resources while the majority suffer. The protests on March 31, 2025, were part of a national shutdown, with demonstrators opposing Mnangagwa’s rumored plan to extend his presidency beyond his constitutional two-term limit (ending in 2028). This unrest is further fueled by internal ZANU-PF factionalism, particularly between Mnangagwa’s camp and supporters of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, as highlighted by war veteran Blessed Geza’s resistance movement (M31).
Mnangagwa, who came to power in a 2017 coup against Robert Mugabe, has been accused of consolidating power through patronage networks, rewarding loyalists with key positions and economic opportunities while sidelining rivals. The individuals listed in the post are seen as part of this network, benefiting from their proximity to Mnangagwa while allegedly engaging in corrupt practices.
Analysis of the "Grand Looting Mafia" (Business Figures)
- Kudakwashe Regimond Tagwirei
- Role: A wealthy businessman with interests in fuel, mining, and agriculture, often linked to state contracts.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Tagwirei is a close ally of Mnangagwa and a key financier of ZANU-PF. He is accused of using his financial influence to secure political power, with reports (e.g., web ID: 4) suggesting Mnangagwa may be positioning him as a potential successor to Vice President Chiwenga. Tagwirei’s company, Sakunda Holdings, has been implicated in opaque deals, including the Command Agriculture program, which critics say enriched elites while failing to ensure food security.
- Allegations: Accused of looting state resources and acquiring properties globally (South Africa, UK, Canada), as per Blessed Geza’s statement (web ID: 1). His vehicles were targeted in arson attacks before the protests (web ID: 6), indicating public anger.
- Wicknell Munodaani Chivhayo
- Role: A controversial entrepreneur known for securing lucrative state contracts, particularly in energy and infrastructure.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Chivhayo is a vocal supporter of Mnangagwa, as seen in his X post (trend ID: 2), where he defends Mnangagwa’s leadership and Vision 2030 agenda. He has benefited from government contracts, including a disputed solar project with the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA).
- Allegations: Implicated in corruption scandals, including the Al Jazeera "Gold Mafia" investigation (2023), which exposed gold smuggling and money laundering. His vehicles were also torched before the protests (web ID: 6), reflecting public resentment.
- Pedzai Scott Sakupwanya
- Role: A gold dealer and ZANU-PF MP, known for his involvement in the mining sector.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Sakupwanya is a loyalist within ZANU-PF, benefiting from mining concessions allegedly facilitated by his political connections. He is part of Mnangagwa’s patronage network, which rewards supporters with economic opportunities.
- Allegations: Accused of benefiting from politically linked mining deals (web ID: 4), contributing to the perception of elite capture of Zimbabwe’s natural resources.
- George Guvamatanga
- Role: Secretary for Finance in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: As a senior civil servant, Guvamatanga works closely with Mnangagwa’s administration, overseeing financial policies. His position makes him a key player in Mnangagwa’s economic strategy.
- Allegations: Geza claims Guvamatanga takes a 10% cut from deals and has purchased properties abroad (web ID: 1), pointing to alleged corruption.
- Julius Charumbira (aka Shumba Mupostori)
- Role: A businessman, possibly linked to religious or apostolic sects (given the "Mupostori" moniker).
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Charumbira’s inclusion suggests he benefits from proximity to Mnangagwa, likely through business dealings or political influence.
- Allegations: Accused of being part of the looting network, with Geza naming him as a "Zvigananda" (web ID: 1).
- John Panonetsa Mangudya
- Role: Former Governor of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ), now CEO of the Mutapa Investment Fund, Zimbabwe’s sovereign wealth fund.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Mangudya served as RBZ Governor under Mnangagwa (2018–2023) and was appointed to lead the Mutapa Fund, a strategic role managing state assets. His appointment reflects Mnangagwa’s trust in him to oversee key economic portfolios.
- Allegations: Criticized for policies during his RBZ tenure, including the reintroduction of the Zimbabwean dollar, which led to hyperinflation. Geza calls him a "Zvigananda" involved in looting (web ID: 1).
- Mthuli Ncube
- Role: Minister of Finance and Economic Development.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Ncube was appointed by Mnangagwa in 2018 and has been a key figure in implementing Mnangagwa’s economic policies, including the controversial austerity measures under the Transitional Stabilisation Programme.
- Allegations: Blamed for economic mismanagement, with Geza accusing him of being part of the looting mafia (web ID: 1). Public frustration with Ncube stems from high taxation and failure to stabilize the economy.
- Obey Chimuka
- Role: A businessman, though specific details are limited.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Likely benefits from state contracts or political connections, as suggested by his inclusion in the list.
- Allegations: Named as a "Zvigananda" by Geza (web ID: 1), implying involvement in corrupt practices.
- Tempter Paul Tungwarara
- Role: A businessman, possibly involved in state-linked projects.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: His inclusion suggests ties to Mnangagwa’s inner circle, likely through business dealings.
- Allegations: Geza expresses strong disdain, accusing Tungwarara of disrespecting the liberation struggle and engaging in theft (web ID: 1).
- Douglas Kwande
- Role: Described as a friend of Mnangagwa, possibly a businessman.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Explicitly identified as a close associate of Mnangagwa (web ID: 1), likely benefiting from this relationship through business opportunities.
- Allegations: Accused of being part of the looting network (web ID: 1).
Analysis of the "Political Criminals" (Political Figures)
- Daniel Garwe
- Role: Minister of Local Government, Mashonaland East Provincial Chairman.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: A ZANU-PF loyalist, Garwe holds a senior position in Mnangagwa’s cabinet and party structure, indicating his alignment with Mnangagwa’s leadership.
- Allegations: Geza labels him a "Selous Scout" (a reference to Rhodesian forces during the liberation war) and accuses him of calling comrades "dogs" (web ID: 1), suggesting betrayal of the liberation struggle.
- Owen "Mudha" Ncube
- Role: Provincial Minister for Midlands.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Previously served as Minister of State Security (2018–2021) under Mnangagwa but was sacked amid factional tensions. His current role indicates he remains within Mnangagwa’s sphere, though his influence has waned.
- Allegations: Accused of being a political criminal (web ID: 1), likely tied to his past role in state security, where he was linked to crackdowns on dissent.
- Tatenda Mavetera
- Role: Minister of ICT.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Appointed by Mnangagwa, Mavetera is a young ZANU-PF member (under 40) and part of his cabinet. Her X post (trend ID: 0) calls for unity and dialogue, aligning with Mnangagwa’s narrative of stability.
- Allegations: Named as a political criminal, possibly due to her role in a government accused of repression (web ID: 6).
- Mabel Chinomona
- Role: President of the Senate.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: A senior ZANU-PF member, Chinomona’s position reflects Mnangagwa’s trust in her to oversee legislative processes that support his agenda.
- Allegations: Included in the list of political criminals, likely due to her role in a parliament seen as rubber-stamping Mnangagwa’s policies (web ID: 6).
- Jacob Mudenda
- Role: Speaker of Parliament.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: A long-time ZANU-PF member, Mudenda has served as Speaker since 2013, continuing under Mnangagwa. He ensures parliamentary support for Mnangagwa’s legislative goals.
- Allegations: Named as a political criminal, possibly for enabling Mnangagwa’s consolidation of power through parliament (web ID: 6).
- Tino Machakaire
- Role: Minister of Youths, Secretary for Youth Affairs.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Appointed by Mnangagwa, Machakaire is part of the youth wing of ZANU-PF, mobilizing support for Mnangagwa among younger demographics.
- Allegations: Included in the list of political criminals, likely for his role in a government accused of neglecting youth unemployment (web ID: 6).
- Christopher Mutsvangwa
- Role: ZANU-PF spokesperson.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: A war veteran and long-time ZANU-PF member, Mutsvangwa has been a vocal supporter of Mnangagwa, though he has also been linked to Chiwenga’s faction in the past.
- Allegations: Named as a political criminal, possibly due to his role in defending Mnangagwa’s administration (web ID: 6).
- John Paradza
- Role: Deputy Minister of Environment, Climate & Wildlife; Deputy Secretary for Youth Affairs.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: A ZANU-PF member, Paradza holds positions that align him with Mnangagwa’s government and youth mobilization efforts.
- Allegations: Included in the list, likely for his role in a government accused of environmental mismanagement and corruption.
- Lovemore Matuke
- Role: Minister of State Security.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Appointed by Mnangagwa, Matuke oversees state security, a critical role in maintaining Mnangagwa’s grip on power.
- Allegations: Named as a political criminal, likely due to his role in state security, which is often associated with repression of dissent.
- Ezra Chadzamira
- Role: Minister of Provincial Affairs, Masvingo.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: A ZANU-PF loyalist, Chadzamira’s role in Masvingo, a ZANU-PF stronghold, aligns him with Mnangagwa’s regional control strategy.
- Allegations: Included in the list, possibly for his role in a government accused of provincial mismanagement.
- Goodwills Masimirembwa
- Role: Harare Provincial Chairman.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: A senior ZANU-PF member, Masimirembwa’s position in Harare, a key political battleground, makes him a crucial ally for Mnangagwa.
- Allegations: Named as a political criminal, likely for his role in ZANU-PF’s Harare operations, which are often linked to electoral manipulation.
- Edson Chiherenge
- Role: Midlands Provincial Chairman.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: As a provincial chairman, Chiherenge helps maintain ZANU-PF’s dominance in the Midlands, aligning with Mnangagwa’s leadership.
- Allegations: Included in the list, possibly for his role in a government accused of regional corruption.
- Munyaradzi Machacha
- Role: ZANU-PF Provincial Chairman.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Machacha’s role in the party structure makes him a key figure in Mnangagwa’s efforts to control ZANU-PF at the provincial level.
- Allegations: Named as a political criminal, likely for his role in party operations seen as supporting Mnangagwa’s agenda.
- Douglas Mahiya
- Role: War veteran.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Mahiya is part of the war veterans’ faction that has historically supported Mnangagwa, though some veterans, like Blessed Geza, now oppose him.
- Allegations: Included in the list, possibly for his role in supporting a government accused of betraying the liberation struggle.
- Eubert Angel (Uebert Angel)
- Role: Spirit Embassy founder, diplomat, and presidential envoy.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Appointed by Mnangagwa as a special envoy, Angel has been used to promote Mnangagwa’s image internationally, despite controversies.
- Allegations: Implicated in the Al Jazeera "Gold Mafia" investigation (2023) for gold smuggling and money laundering, reflecting his alleged role in corruption.
- Edwin Mutongwizo (aka EdBranson)
- Role: Unclear, possibly a businessman or political figure.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: His inclusion suggests ties to Mnangagwa’s inner circle, likely through business or political connections.
- Allegations: Named as a political criminal, though specific allegations are unclear.
- Winstone Chitando
- Role: Minister of Mines.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Appointed by Mnangagwa, Chitando oversees the mining sector, a key area of economic activity and alleged corruption.
- Allegations: Included in the list, likely for his role in a sector accused of elite capture and resource looting.
- Jenfan Muswere
- Role: Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Appointed by Mnangagwa, Muswere controls state media, a tool for promoting Mnangagwa’s narrative (web ID: 7).
- Allegations: Named as a political criminal, possibly for his role in suppressing free media and promoting government propaganda.
- Anxious Masuka
- Role: Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Appointed by Mnangagwa, Masuka is tasked with ensuring food security, a priority for Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 (web ID: 7).
- Allegations: Included in the list, likely for his role in a government accused of failing to address food insecurity.
- July Moyo
- Role: Minister of Energy.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: A long-time ally of Mnangagwa, Moyo has held various cabinet positions, reflecting his loyalty to Mnangagwa.
- Allegations: Named as a political criminal, possibly for his role in the energy sector, which faces chronic shortages and allegations of mismanagement.
- Kazembe Kazembe
- Role: Home Affairs Minister, Provincial Chairman for Mashonaland Central.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Appointed by Mnangagwa, Kazembe oversees internal security, a critical role in maintaining Mnangagwa’s power.
- Allegations: Included in the list, likely for his role in a ministry associated with police repression during protests.
- Richard Moyo
- Role: Provincial Affairs Minister, Matabeleland North.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: A ZANU-PF loyalist, Moyo’s role in Matabeleland North aligns him with Mnangagwa’s regional control strategy.
- Allegations: Named as a political criminal, possibly for his role in a government accused of regional neglect.
- Polite Kambamura
- Role: MP for Sanyati.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: A ZANU-PF MP, Kambamura supports Mnangagwa’s leadership within parliament.
- Allegations: Included in the list, though specific allegations are unclear.
- Ziyambi Ziyambi
- Role: Minister of Justice, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs.
- Ties to Mnangagwa: Appointed by Mnangagwa, Ziyambi oversees the justice system, which critics say has been used to target opposition figures.
- Allegations: Named as a political criminal, likely for his role in a justice system accused of bias and repression.
Ties to Emmerson Mnangagwa: A Broader Perspective
- Patronage Network:
- Mnangagwa has maintained power by building a patronage network that rewards loyalty with political positions, state contracts, and economic opportunities. Business figures like Tagwirei, Chivhayo, and Sakupwanya benefit from this system, securing lucrative deals in sectors like fuel, mining, and energy. Political figures, such as cabinet ministers (Ncube, Masuka, Ziyambi) and party officials (Masimirembwa, Chiherenge), are appointed to key roles to ensure loyalty and control over ZANU-PF structures.
- Factionalism within ZANU-PF:
- The list reflects the ongoing succession battle within ZANU-PF, particularly between Mnangagwa’s camp and Chiwenga’s faction. Figures like Tagwirei are rumored to be Mnangagwa’s preferred successors (web ID: 4), while war veterans like Blessed Geza, who support Chiwenga, are leading opposition to Mnangagwa’s term extension (trend ID: 9). This factionalism has exposed corruption within Mnangagwa’s inner circle, as seen in Geza’s accusations (web ID: 1).
- Corruption and Economic Mismanagement:
- The "Grand Looting Mafia" is accused of plundering Zimbabwe’s resources, contributing to economic collapse and a failing healthcare system. For example, Tagwirei and Chivhayo’s business dealings are seen as emblematic of elite capture, while ministers like Ncube and Mangudya are blamed for economic policies that have exacerbated poverty and inflation.
- Repression and Control:
- Political figures like Matuke (State Security) and Kazembe (Home Affairs) are key to Mnangagwa’s strategy of maintaining power through repression, as seen in the heavy police response to the March 31 protests (trend summary). The inclusion of parliamentary leaders (Chinomona, Mudenda) suggests Mnangagwa’s control over legislative processes to push his agenda, including potential constitutional amendments for a term extension.
- Public Discontent:
- The post and protests reflect widespread frustration with Mnangagwa’s leadership. The reference to Mbuya Nehanda, a symbol of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, underscores the sentiment that Mnangagwa and his allies have betrayed the ideals of independence. The healthcare crisis—hospitals lacking medication and emergency services—further fuels public anger, as highlighted in the post.
Conclusion
The individuals listed in the X post are part of Mnangagwa’s broader network of political and business allies, accused of corruption and contributing to Zimbabwe’s crises. Business figures like Tagwirei, Chivhayo, and Sakupwanya benefit from state contracts and economic opportunities, while political figures—ministers, party officials, and war veterans—help Mnangagwa maintain power through loyalty, repression, and control of ZANU-PF structures. However, this network is under strain due to internal factionalism, public discontent, and protests, as seen on March 31, 2025. The accusations of looting and political criminality reflect a deep crisis of legitimacy for Mnangagwa’s administration, with many Zimbabweans demanding new leadership and an end to systemic corruption.