ZANU PF Youth League has issued a stern warning against individuals who misuse President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s name and the party’s standing for personal or political gain, saying such practices undermine party discipline and unity.
Speaking at a provincial ZANU PF Youth inter-district meeting in Harare yesterday, the party’s Secretary for Youth Affairs, Cde Tino Machakaire, said the leadership was concerned by the growing trend of individuals falsely claiming close ties to the President in an effort to secure influence, favours and public recognition.
Cde Machakaire said the party would soon take decisive action against those engaging in such conduct, including publicly exposing individuals who misrepresent their relationship with the Head of State and Government.
“We will identify and publicly call out those who falsely claim to be close to the President. Such individuals will not be allowed to use the President’s name to advance personal interests. One cannot claim loyalty to the President while supporting people who openly disrespect him,” he said.
He stressed that many loyal party cadres had dedicated years of service to the ruling party without seeking recognition or personal rewards, adding that their sacrifices deserved greater acknowledgement.
Cde Machakaire also questioned the recent trend in which certain individuals have received high-profile gifts and rewards from businesspeople, arguing that resources could be better directed towards projects that benefit wider communities.
“A whole nation cannot watch as only a select few individuals receive rewards. We have national development projects that require support and funding. Resources should be channelled towards initiatives that uplift communities and contribute to national development,” he said.
He warned that some activities were creating divisions within the party and urged newer members to respect the party’s history, traditions and leadership structures.
“Those who are new to the party must learn from experienced cadres and understand the values upon which the movement was built. We have veterans and longstanding members who made significant sacrifices for the country and the party, and they deserve respect,” he said.
Deputy Secretary for Youth Affairs, Cde John Paradza, echoed the sentiments, warning that those abusing the President’s name and attempting to create parallel centres of influence would soon face public scrutiny.
“We are aware of individuals who are seeking personal gain by presenting themselves as being connected to the leadership. Their activities are known and appropriate action will be taken. The nation and the party deserve integrity and respect,” said Cde Paradza.
He emphasised that ZANU PF remained an institution governed by established procedures and accountability mechanisms, adding that all support and donations to the party should be channelled through official structures.
“ZANU PF is not a platform for personal ambitions, self-appointed authority or parallel structures. The party has clear processes and recognised offices that must be respected. Anyone wishing to support the party should do so through the proper channels under the guidance of the secretary-general,” he said.
Cde Paradza reaffirmed that discipline, unity and adherence to party procedures remained central to the revolutionary movement, stressing that the party’s interests would always take precedence over those of individuals.
