Tensions grew within Zanu-PF after President Mnangagwa’s adviser Paul Tungwarara was co-opted into the party’s central committee. The move was blocked due to procedural rules. The dispute exposed rifts between traditional party structures and wealthy new power brokers, amid accusations of money politics. The matter is now set for resolution by the politburo, highlighting escalating factional strain ahead of key party meetings.

Former CCC leader Nelson Chamisa warned Zanu-PF against amending the Constitution to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term, calling the move reckless and destabilizing. He said any attempt to fast-track such changes without public consent would provoke resistance and could paralyze the country. Chamisa stressed that Zanu-PF resolutions have no national authority and that constitutional amendments require broad citizen participation through a referendum.

Parliament erupted when a Zanu-PF MP made a personal remark about the mother of Kwekwe legislator Judith Tobaiwa (CCC) during a debate on maternal health funding. Tobaiwa had called for a dedicated maternal health budget, but the interruption sparked outrage. Some MPs appeared intoxicated, prompting calls for apologies and breathalyzer checks. The Acting Speaker condemned personal attacks, highlighting the ongoing tensions and challenges in addressing sensitive issues like maternal healthcare.

Two Zimbabwean journalists from Masvingo Mirror and their driver were briefly detained by armed police while investigating a land and infrastructure dispute linked to a provincial minister. The police accused them of trespassing and later linked them to unrelated robbery claims. They were held for several hours before being released without charge. The incident has raised concerns about intimidation, abuse of authority, and growing pressure on journalists reporting on sensitive public-interest issues.

Harare City Council has launched an operation to remove street children from the CBD, a move widely welcomed by women who say they have suffered theft and harassment. Municipal police rounded up children aged between five and 20, citing rising crime and intimidation. While residents support the action, many warn that sporadic blitzes will not solve the entrenched problem and are calling for sustained interventions.

Zimbabwe’s largest trade union federation, the ZFTU, says workers are under siege from politically connected elites, military figures and foreign investors accused of exploiting labor. Secretary-general Kennias Shamuyarira warned of political capture of the labor market. He is singling out Chinese-owned Dinson Iron & Steel for alleged rights abuses. The union says Vision 2030 growth is unsustainable without decent wages and protections, while Dinson denies the allegations.