Reports indicate growing factional tensions within Zimbabwe’s ruling ZANU-PF, centred on alleged efforts by party chair Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri to block minister Anseleem Sanyatwe’s rise to the central committee amid claims of vote-buying. State-aligned media have also published unverified reports suggesting several senior figures backing Vice President Constantino Chiwenga in a “succession faction.” Analysts view the disputes as signs of internal rivalry ahead of the party’s 2027 congress.

Treasury has released over US$101 million this year for the Gwayi-Shangani and Kunzvi dams, in line with President Mnangagwa’s directive to fast-track major infrastructure under his administration’s development agenda. Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube said the projects—now over 60% complete—symbolize the government’s push to fulfil long-delayed national commitments and bolster its “Second Republic” legacy. The investments underscore Mnangagwa’s bid to demonstrate progress on water security and rural development ahead of future elections.

Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube’s claim that most Zimbabweans have reached upper-middle-income status has drawn political scrutiny, as it contrasts sharply with widespread poverty and low wages. Speaking at the 2026 Pre-Budget Seminar, Ncube credited economic growth under the National Development Strategy 1 for the supposed progress. However, critics view his remarks as politically motivated rhetoric ahead of elections, arguing that the government is overstating success while citizens face soaring costs and stagnant incomes.

The Zimbabwe Nurses Association urged the government to improve salaries and working conditions to prevent strikes and a growing exodus of medical staff. Speaking in Masvingo, ZINA president Enock Dongo said over 4,000 nurses have applied for verification letters to work abroad due to poor welfare. He criticized the Health Ministry for withholding these letters, warning that continued neglect could cripple the country’s already strained public health system.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s push to extend his rule beyond Zimbabwe’s two-term constitutional limit has triggered political tension and violence, with a Harare venue firebombed and police blocking a Bulawayo meeting of opponents. The ruling ZANU-PF wants legislative changes to extend Mnangagwa’s term to 2030, but legal experts say this requires referenda and cannot benefit an incumbent. The dispute has also deepened internal party rifts and raised concerns for stability, investment, and debt-re-engagement efforts.

The Zimbabwean government purchased the Monomotapa Hotel from African Sun to accommodate Members of Parliament during sittings. A move aimed at reducing recurring hotel expenditure. Finance Minister Ncube announced the acquisition at the pre-budget seminar in Bulawayo, saying the hotel will remain open to the public when Parliament is not in session. African Sun had valued the property at US$18 million earlier this year. Government has not disclosed the purchase price.