Mnangagwa rewards allies with Senate seats

President Emmerson Mnangagwa gazetted 10 new senators on September 1, 2026, including businessman Kuda Tagwirei, under Amendment No. 3 that controversially expanded the Upper House from 80 to 90 seats. The appointments took effect immediately, with the new members taking their oaths the following day, September 2. Critics argue the move consolidates executive control over the legislature, rewarding allies with parliamentary positions and undermining democratic checks. Zanu PF officials defend the appointments as routine political nominations that strengthen party representation and ensure regional balance, dismissing concerns about executive overreach. The ten senators include former provincial bosses and loyalists such as Jabulani Sibanda, Mary Mliswa, Godwills Masimirembwa, Nokuthula Matsikenyere, Lucy Chitaga, and Major-General (Rtd) Gibson Mashingaidze. The controversial constitutional changes have drawn criticism from opposition figures who say they concentrate power in the executive.