Harare – The hushed corridors of power in Zimbabwe’s capital are abuzz with whispers of a dramatic shift within the ruling Zanu PF party. Obert Mpofu, once a towering figure and self-proclaimed “obedient son” of the party, finds himself at the epicentre of a political earthquake that has seen his influence wane considerably. His recent absence from crucial decision-making forums has ignited a firestorm of speculation, suggesting that this is no mere administrative reshuffle, but a calculated “cleansing” of the old guard to pave the way for a more assertive and aggressive faction within the party.
This investigative piece delves into the intricate web of internal tensions that have led to Mpofu’s loyalists being systematically sidelined in provincial structures. Was his downfall triggered by a specific policy misstep, or has he simply outlived his strategic utility to the “Presidency”? We embark on a documentary-style exploration of Mpofu’s ascent, the pivotal moments that defined his career, and the specific events that have culminated in his current predicament. Our aim is to demystify the complex internal dynamics of Zanu PF, elucidating for the average Zimbabwean why this power struggle holds profound implications for their daily lives. From alleged “farm vacations” to stern “disciplinary warnings,” we meticulously piece together the fragments of a political giant whose once-formidable shadow is rapidly diminishing.
The Enigma of Dumbuguru: A Silent Kingmaker’s Rise
Obert Mpofu, often affectionately and sometimes derisively nicknamed ‘Dumbuguru’ – a Shona term meaning ‘Big Tummy’ – has long been regarded as a silent kingmaker within Zanu PF. His political journey is a tapestry woven with threads of loyalty, pragmatism, and a keen sense of political survival. Mpofu’s historical significance is underscored by his controversial role in the dramatic events of November 2017, which ultimately led to the ousting of the late President Robert Mugabe.
It was Mpofu who famously chaired the Zanu PF Central Committee meeting that made the momentous decision to ‘fire’ and recall Mugabe from his position as party leader. This audacious move effectively nullified Mugabe’s earlier attempt to dismiss Emmerson Mnangagwa as his Vice President, a decision that had set in motion the chain of events leading to the military intervention. Mpofu’s actions during this critical period cemented his reputation as a key player, capable of influencing the highest echelons of power.
Yet, Mpofu’s political allegiances have not always been straightforward. Long before the 1987 Unity Accord that merged Zanu and Zapu, Mpofu had already pledged his loyalty to Zanu. This early alignment was viewed by some of his fellow PF Zapu founding members as an act of betrayal, particularly given that it was Mugabe, rather than Joshua Nkomo, the then leader of Zapu, who ultimately ascended to the pinnacle of power. This early demonstration of political foresight, or perhaps opportunism, established Mpofu as a figure who understood the shifting sands of Zimbabwean politics and was adept at navigating them.
For years, he was widely perceived as a silent kingmaker, a man whose influence operated beneath the surface but was nonetheless potent. His unwavering loyalty to Mugabe earned him the moniker “Mugabe’s obedient son,” a title he carried until the very day he presided over the meeting that orchestrated Mugabe’s downfall. This ironic twist of fate highlights the ruthless and often unpredictable nature of power politics within Zanu PF.
The Mnangagwa Era: A New Dawn, A Swift Retirement
Upon assuming the presidency following the November 2017 coup, Emmerson Mnangagwa wasted no time in reshaping his administration. Ironically, one of his first significant actions was to retire Obert Mpofu and other long-serving party stalwarts, such as Patrick Chinamasa, from cabinet positions. These individuals had been fixtures in Mugabe’s cabinet for decades, their presence a testament to their enduring influence. Mpofu, along with Chinamasa, was initially reassigned to a post at the party headquarters, a move that was widely interpreted as a demotion, a polite way of easing them out of direct governmental power.
However, Mpofu’s tenure at the party headquarters proved to be short-lived, as he eventually lost that position as well. This gradual but decisive stripping away of his responsibilities signalled a clear intent from the new leadership to consolidate power and usher in a new political order. Mpofu is widely believed to be an ally of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, a figure who has increasingly found himself at odds with President Mnangagwa. In the cutthroat world of Zanu PF politics, proximity to Chiwenga is now seen as a liability, placing individuals squarely in the crosshairs of what many observers describe as a “firing squad” targeting those perceived to be loyal to the Vice President.
The September 2025 Demotion: A Public Humiliation
Mpofu’s replacement as Secretary General was Jacob Mudenda, the Speaker of the National Assembly, a staunch Mnangagwa loyalist who had previously served as Treasurer General. This appointment further solidified Mnangagwa’s grip on the party apparatus, replacing a perceived Chiwenga ally with a trusted confidant.
According to Zanu PF activist Tonderai Chidawa, Mpofu’s demotion was a direct consequence of concerns within the party regarding his leadership and his potential involvement in a corruption dossier that had recently been tabled before the politburo. Chidawa alleged that Mpofu had failed to unite the party, claiming that its membership had become fragmented under his stewardship. The activist further questioned why Mpofu’s name was conspicuously absent from the dossier, suggesting that this omission indicated his prior knowledge of its origins.
Adding to Mpofu’s woes, reports emerged of widespread celebrations among Zanu PF’s grassroots supporters in the Matabeleland Provinces following news of his demotion. Chidawa noted, “People are celebrating. There are celebrations in Matabeleland. We are talking of the downfall of a man who owns many big buildings in Bulawayo and Victoria Falls.” This public rejoicing underscored the deep-seated resentment some party members harboured towards Mpofu, particularly concerning his perceived accumulation of wealth.
The $3.2 Billion Corruption Dossier: A Catalyst for Conflict
The corruption dossier mentioned by Chidawa proved to be a pivotal element in the unfolding drama. Leaked in October 2025, this explosive document alleged the looting of a staggering $3.2 billion and implicated prominent business tycoons Wicknell Chivayo and Kudakwashe Tagwirei.
Mpofu’s demotion was intimately linked to this scandal. It is widely suspected that he had knowledge of the dossier’s origins, and some speculate that his demotion was a punitive measure for his perceived role in its leak, possibly intended to embarrass Mnangagwa’s business allies. The dossier served as a potent weapon in the ongoing power struggle, providing ammunition for factions seeking to undermine their rivals.
The ED2030 Campaign: Mnangagwa’s Bid for Extended Power
The internal strife within Zanu PF is further exacerbated by the contentious “ED2030” campaign. This initiative, spearheaded by a faction within the party, aims to push through a Constitution Amendment Bill that would extend President Mnangagwa’s term beyond 2028. The campaign’s slogan, “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo” (The country is built by its native owners), has become a rallying cry, though it is increasingly being overshadowed by the more direct “ED2030” in party circles.
This move has ignited deep divisions, particularly among those who view it as an attempt to circumvent democratic processes and consolidate Mnangagwa’s power indefinitely. Chris Mutsvangwa, the Zanu PF spokesperson, has openly challenged the Chiwenga-linked faction, pointedly telling them to “wait for 2030.” This statement is a clear and unambiguous signal of the direct confrontation between the two powerful factions, with Mnangagwa’s camp determined to secure his extended tenure.
Sidelining Chiwenga Allies: A Calculated Purge
The demotion of Obert Mpofu is not an isolated incident but rather part of a broader, calculated purge of individuals perceived to be loyal to Vice President Chiwenga. In October 2025, President Mnangagwa reportedly fired five senior officials who were known allies of Chiwenga. This systematic sidelining of Chiwenga’s supporters extends beyond cabinet positions and into the provincial structures of the party.
There are credible reports of a “cleansing” operation underway, with provincial structures being purged of Chiwenga loyalists. The objective of this operation is clear: to ensure the smooth passage of the ED2030 bill at the provincial level, thereby paving the way for Mnangagwa’s extended stay in power. This aggressive consolidation of power has created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty within the party, with many officials wary of expressing dissent or aligning themselves with the losing faction.
Hibernation and the Looming Threat of Civil Strife
As of early 2026, the political atmosphere within Zanu PF remains highly charged. The 22nd Annual National People’s Conference which took place late last year was marked by palpable tension and underlying currents of suspicion. Whispers of potential civil strife or even a “counter-coup” are circulating, reflecting the intensity of the infighting and the high stakes involved. The struggle for succession and control of the party has reached a fever pitch, with both the Mnangagwa and Chiwenga factions vying for dominance.
Obert Mpofu, once a formidable force, is now described as being in “hibernation” or “self-imposed isolation” since his demotion. His silence is a stark contrast to his previously vocal presence, suggesting a strategic retreat or perhaps a forced quietude. His current predicament serves as a cautionary tale for those who navigate the treacherous waters of Zanu PF politics, where loyalty is fluid and power can be fleeting.
Conclusion: A Party in Turmoil
The dramatic fall of Obert Mpofu is more than just the story of one man’s political decline; it is a microcosm of the deeper, more profound struggles convulsing Zanu PF. The party, which has held an iron grip on power for decades, is now grappling with internal divisions that threaten to tear it apart. The battle between the Mnangagwa and Chiwenga factions, fuelled by ambitions for extended power and allegations of corruption, has created an environment of instability and uncertainty.
The implications for Zimbabwe are significant. A fractured ruling party, consumed by internal power struggles, may struggle to address the pressing economic and social challenges facing the nation. The political machinations playing out behind closed doors will undoubtedly shape the future trajectory of Zimbabwe, and the fate of figures like Obert Mpofu serves as a stark reminder of the perilous nature of power in the country’s political landscape.
