ZANU PF has temporarily suspended the distribution of the Presidential Economic Empowerment Revolving Fund until further notice.
The decision was announced by the party’s national political commissar, Munyaradzi Machacha, in a letter dated 23 January 2024, addressed to all provincial chairpersons. Wrote Machacha:
“The Commissariat Department wishes to announce the temporary suspension of the distribution of the Presidential Economic Empowerment Revolving Fund hence forth.
“The Secretary General Cde Advocate J.F.N. Mudenda will soon issue new guidelines on the distribution, utilisation and management of the Fund.
“Provinces are advised to comply with this Party position pending further instruction.”
The move is seen as a setback for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s adviser, Paul Tungwarara, who was heading the Presidential Economic Empowerment Revolving Fund.
It follows Tungwarara’s public criticism of businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei, whom he accused of being power-hungry and unfit to be president. The decision is widely viewed as a response by Tagwirei’s allies.
Tungwarara was expected to make the final payments from the Presidential Constituency Empowerment Fund at Sakubva Stadium in Mutare District this Sunday, with more than 30,000 people expected to attend.
He was due to give US$25,000 each to the Dangamvura, Chikanga, and Mutare Central constituencies.
Last week, Tungwarara visited Nyanga, where he handed out the fund to Nyanga North and Nyanga South.
He also gave US$50,000 each to war collaborators, former political detainees and restrictees, non-combatant cadres, and widows of fallen heroes.
In addition, he allocated US$20,000 to a local clinic and provided Starlink kits for 40 schools in Nyanga South.
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