Tinotenda Hove – Controversial businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei has rejected claims that he harbours ambitions to run for Zimbabwe’s presidency, insisting that President Emmerson Mnangagwa will remain in office beyond the end of his current term in 2028—potentially until 2030.

Speaking during a Land Tenure Programme held at the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) in Bulawayo on Wednesday, Tagwirei denied any interest in political leadership.

“There is no presidential vacancy—President Emmerson Mnangagwa will lead until 2030,” he declared. “I am a businessman. Why would I chase something that doesn’t exist?”

Tagwirei, who has long been associated with Zimbabwe’s political elite and frequently accused of wielding significant behind-the-scenes influence, also made provocative remarks about the country’s economic environment.

“If you’re not a tenderpreneur, you’re foolish,” he said, referring to a term used to describe individuals who profit from state contracts through political connections.

His comments come amid growing speculation over the succession question within the ruling ZANU PF party, as uncertainty looms over Zimbabwe’s political future beyond 2028. Although President Mnangagwa’s second and final constitutional term ends in 2028, he has not publicly addressed whether he intends to pursue an extension.

Tagwirei’s remarks have sparked criticism from opposition parties and civil society organisations, who interpret them as part of an effort to lay the groundwork for an unconstitutional extension of Mnangagwa’s tenure.