HARARE – Several prominent members of Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF, suffered surprising defeats in weekend primary elections.
The outcomes suggest that some politicians’ careers may be coming to an end.
The elections, which will determine which candidates represent the party in the forthcoming harmonized elections later this year, were hotly contested.
Zanu PF deputy political commissar, Webster Shamu, failed to win a party ticket to run in Chegutu East, despite his status as a veteran lawmaker.
ICT Minister Jenfan Muswere, Joseph Chinotimba, Philip Chiyangwa, Kindness Paradza, Mashonaland West Minister of State Mary Mliswa, and Tourism Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu, all lost in their respective races.
Perhaps the most surprising result came in Chikomba West, where Health and Child Care deputy minister John Mangwiro lost to former Studio263 actress Tatenda Anastasia Mavetera.
In Goromonzi West, former MP Beata Nyamupinga returned to win a ticket to represent the party, replacing Energy Mutodi who transferred to Masvingo.
The results were indicative of a changing political landscape in Zimbabwe, with younger and newer candidates seemingly gaining traction.
Wiriranayi Muchemwa soundly defeated veteran Uzumba MP Simbaneuta Mudarikwa, while newcomer Wilson Maposa defeated Manicaland Provincial Minister of State and Devolution Nokuthula Matsikenyere.
Chegutu West current member of parliament Dexter Nduna also lost to one Farai Chigavazira.
Former ZEC commissioner Qhubani Moyo’s bid to earn a party ticket as Insiza candidate also failed when he lost the internal poll.
Current Transport Minister Felix Mhona won in Chikomba East, beating four other challengers who included Industry and Commerce minister Sekai Nzenza.
However, there were surprise entrants in Zanu PF director of information Tafadzwa Mugwadi.
Malaysian based political commentator, Andres Pino, believes the defeats could indicate a shift away from traditional power structures within the party.
“What this shows is that even if you are a heavyweight, you may not necessarily win,” he said.
The results of the primary elections suggest that the party is experiencing a generational shift, with new candidates emerging to challenge established politicians.
As Zimbabwe prepares for the harmonized elections later this year, the results could indicate a change in political power dynamics.
