A viral rumour claiming Vice President Constantino Chiwenqa has been fired from Zanu PF is sweeping social media. But there is no official confirmation, and evidence points to a fabricated story. The claims, which originated from a now-deleted post on X by a parody account, have nonetheless sparked intense debate about the ruling party’s internal dynamics.
Why the Rumour Gained Traction
Zanu PF has a long history of internal purges. From the expulsion of the so-called ‘G40’ faction in 2017 to the sidelining of figures like Saviour Kasukuwere, party expulsions are often executed without public hearings. Chiwenqa’s military background and his role in the 2017 coup that ousted Robert Mugabe make him both indispensable and a threat to any faction seeking to control the succession after President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Any move against Chiwenqa would signal a dramatic realignment of power ahead of the 2028 elections — or possibly even earlier. A real expulsion would consolidate a civilian faction at the risk of alienating the security establishment, a gamble few observers believe Mnangagwa is willing to take. But so far, the ‘firing’ appears to be a fabrication. No party disciplinary committee has met. No letter with verifiable metadata has been leaked.
Implications for Zimbabwe
For ordinary Zimbabweans, the rumour is a reminder that political stability remains fragile. The ruling party’s internal battles often spill into the economy — affecting everything from fuel prices to currency reforms. Investors watch leadership squabbles closely; a genuine Chiwenqa expulsion would likely trigger capital flight and a sharp drop in the Zimbabwean dollar.
Equally important, the rumour shows how easily misinformation spreads in a country where internet penetration is high but independent journalism is under financial pressure. Social media platforms are the primary news source for millions, yet they are also the primary vector for unverified claims. Across provinces, party insiders acknowledge the rumors but lack evidence. The lack of any official statement from Zanu PF or the Vice President’s office only deepens the uncertainty.
