By a Correspondent
Outspoken political commentator Rutendo Benson Matinyarare has urged businessman and Senator Kudakwashe Tagwirei to engage retired military generals and the United States government over his sanctions status before taking up the post of Minister of Economic Development and Investment Promotion.
On Thursday 8 October, President Emmerson Mnangagwa split Zimbabwe’s economic ministry, appointing Tagwirei as Minister of Economic Development and Investment Promotion, while Professor Mthuli Ncube retained responsibility for Finance.
In a social media commentary on the potential political and economic implications of Tagwirei’s appointment, Matinyarare warned that unresolved tensions with influential political and military figures, coupled with US sanctions, could expose the country to risks.
Matinyarare cited the absence of retired generals and Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga from Tagwirei’s son’s wedding as a possible indication of strained relations between the businessman and sections of the military establishment.
He argued that the absence of such influential figures should not be dismissed, given the role military-linked networks play in Zimbabwe’s political landscape.
Matinyarare also drew parallels with the alleged failure by senior military figures to pay their condolences following the death of businessman Wicknell Chivayo, suggesting that such developments could carry political significance.
“The military establishment of Retired Generals and the VP — the shadow government of the country — did not attend his son’s wedding,” Matinyarare wrote.
“These are the same Generals who have not paid condolences to Wicknell Chivayo. This is not something one can ignore from a political perspective in Zimbabwe.”
On sanctions, Matinyarare said Tagwirei remained subject to US restrictions and argued that he had not done enough to challenge the allegations underlying the measures or present counter-evidence to secure their removal.
He warned that the unresolved sanctions issue could complicate Tagwirei’s suitability for a senior government role, particularly one involving economic policy and development.
Matinyarare said Tagwirei should engage the relevant US authorities and address the concerns surrounding his sanctions designation before assuming his new responsibilities.
“Kuda is still under sanctions and he has not done anything in his power to address the allegations made by the U.S. Presidency to have him under sanctions. Neither has he attempted to address court papers or OFAC by presenting counter-evidence to remove him from sanctions. This presents a national security risk,” Matinyarare said.
“All these factors make Kuda a potential liability, and placing him as Minister is a potentially risky strategy for the country. “
He urged Tagwirei, a Zanu PF Central Committee member, to reach out to retired generals whom he believes may feel betrayed by him, arguing that rebuilding relationships with influential stakeholders would help ease political tensions.
“Placate all critical stakeholders for harmony, Senator,” Matinyarare said, cautioning Tagwirei against ignoring influential figures who could be important to his political and business interests.
The commentary comes amid broader questions about the intersection of business, politics and economic policymaking in Zimbabwe, where relationships among political leaders, the military establishment and influential businesspeople can shape the country’s economic and governance environment.
