Tinotenda Hove – President Emmerson Mnangagwa is facing renewed criticism over what observers say is a growing pattern of patronage and internal power consolidation, following a fresh round of controversial appointments that appear to favour loyalists.

The latest moves come amid ongoing Zanu PF infighting and concerns over the President’s increasing reliance on close allies and family members. Critics point to recent military promotions in which Mnangagwa elevated his own son, Sean Mnangagwa, as part of a broader trend of entrenching personal influence across key state institutions.

In the latest announcement, Chief Secretary Martin Rushwaya confirmed that “the appointment was made under section 104(2) of the constitution and takes effect from 1 May 2026,” as Tsitsi Zhou was named Deputy Minister of Lands and Rural Development. The restructuring of the ministry itself has raised eyebrows, with some viewing it as a strategic move to reshuffle power rather than improve efficiency.

Mnangagwa has also renewed the contract of Rugare Kangwende as deputy chairperson of the Health Service Commission, a decision critics say reflects a reluctance to bring in fresh leadership in struggling public institutions. The renewal, “effective from 1 March 2026,” was made under constitutional provisions, but questions remain about transparency and merit.

Further appointments to the Health Service Commission have only intensified scrutiny. Ernest T Manyawu and Lieutenant Colonel Lioba T Gunduza were named commissioners, with officials stating that “the appointments were made under section 320 of the Constitution, read with section 5 of the Health Service Act.” However, detractors argue that such legal justifications mask deeper issues of political loyalty overriding competence.

Additional appointments include Prosper Bvumiranayi Matondi as permanent secretary for Lands and Rural Development, and Shingirayi Mushamba as permanent secretary for provincial affairs and devolution in Harare. According to Rushwaya, “all four appointments take effect from 1 May 2026,” a statement that has done little to quell criticism.

The Health Service Commission, which “oversees the recruitment, conditions of service and discipline of health workers in Zimbabwe’s public sector,” is already under pressure due to ongoing challenges in the healthcare system. Critics argue that stacking it with politically aligned figures risks further undermining its effectiveness.

Similarly, permanent secretaries, described as “the most senior civil servants in government ministries, responsible for day-to-day administration and policy implementation,” are expected to operate impartially. However, the latest appointments have sparked fears that professionalism in the civil service is being eroded in favour of political loyalty.

Taken together, the developments paint a troubling picture for critics who believe Mnangagwa is tightening his grip on power while sidelining broader national interests.