The ruling ZANU-PF party has forcefully rejected allegations that political aspirant Dr. Paul Tungwarara attempted to bribe provincial officials to secure a seat on its powerful Central Committee, stating unequivocally that all appointments are governed by a strict constitutional process.
The allegations, first published by the online outlet ZimEye, claimed Tungwarara sought to “smuggle” himself into the committee by offering financial inducements to members of the ZANU-PF Manicaland provincial executive.
The Central Committee is a key administrative and policy-making organ of the party.
In a firm rebuttal, ZANU-PF’s Secretary for Legal Affairs, Cde Patrick Chinamasa, dismissed the report as baseless and contrary to the party’s established principles. “ZANU-PF is a constitutional body, guided by its constitution and rules in all its operations, including the composition of its organs,” Chinamasa stated. “The suggestion that a seat in the Central Committee can be purchased is an insult to the party and its disciplined membership. It is a fabrication.”
Chinamasa emphasized that the process for selecting Central Committee members is clearly outlined in the party’s constitution, involving nominations from provincial structures and final ratification at the national level. “There are no shortcuts. The constitution is the sole guide,” he added.
When contacted for comment on the original allegations, Dr. Tungwarara did not respond. The ZANU-PF Manicaland provincial leadership also declined to comment, referring all inquiries to the national party statement.
Political analyst Earnest Mudzengi noted that the party’s swift constitutional response aims to project discipline and order. “By invoking its constitution, ZANU-PF is attempting to quarantine this as an external smear and reinforce the message that internal advancement follows strict, legitimate channels,” Mudzengi said. “It is a defensive move to protect the integrity of its core institutions from allegations of corruption.”
The ZimEye article, which cited unnamed sources, has not been corroborated by other major news outlets. The publication is known for its reporting critical of the ruling party.
Chinamasa concluded his remarks with a broader warning: “ZANU-PF has zero tolerance for corruption or the buying of influence. Any member found engaging in such conduct would face immediate disciplinary action under our code of conduct. Our constitution does not provide for entry through the back door.”
