“Kasukuwere Survives, Allies Suffer!” — Activists Warn Zimbabweans to Beware

HARARE — Veteran politician Saviour Kasukuwere continues to make headlines, not only for his political maneuvering but also for his uncanny ability to emerge unscathed from Zimbabwe’s most turbulent political battles. Activists and political commentators are now warning the public and fellow politicians to exercise caution when associating with Kasukuwere, pointing to a series of high-profile cases in which his allies have faced serious setbacks.

Observers say that Kasukuwere’s political resilience is legendary, enabling him to navigate factional wars, leadership changes, and party purges while maintaining influence. However, those closest to him have, in some cases, faced dire consequences.

One widely cited example is former Vice President Joyce Mujuru, who analysts argue was used as a “trump card” by Kasukuwere during his rise to become Mugabe’s Political Commissar. While Mujuru initially benefited from alignment with Kasukuwere, her political career later faltered amid factional battles and accusations of disloyalty, illustrating the potential risks of working too closely with the political operator.

More recently, former Foreign Minister Walter Mzembi experienced what many describe as a dramatic fallout with Kasukuwere. Reports suggest that Kasukuwere allegedly intervened with the South African Department of Home Affairs, forcing Mzembi to relocate to Zambia. While in Zambia, Mzembi was reportedly lured into a trap allegedly orchestrated by Kasukuwere, which ultimately resulted in his imprisonment — a development that sparked shockwaves across political circles.

“Saviour Kasukuwere has shown time and again that he is a survivor,” said one political analyst. “But history also shows that those who work closely with him can face severe consequences if they fall out of favor.”

Social media has amplified these warnings, with activists and ordinary citizens sharing anecdotes, memes, and commentary highlighting the apparent pattern: Kasukuwere navigates political storms while his associates pay the price. Many online users are urging politicians to be cautious about forming alliances with him, citing the cases of Mujuru and Mzembi as cautionary tales.

“He’s untouchable, but those who step into his orbit risk being crushed if things go wrong,” commented one activist on X (formerly Twitter). “It’s a lesson in political survival — and caution.”

Political observers argue that Kasukuwere’s reputation is a double-edged sword. On one hand, his ability to survive and maintain influence is admired; on the other, it creates an environment of uncertainty and mistrust for those working alongside him. Analysts warn that his strategic moves often place his allies in positions where they are exposed to political, legal, or logistical vulnerabilities, sometimes deliberately as part of broader maneuvering.

The warnings coming from activists underscore a broader narrative in Zimbabwean politics: alliances are fragile, loyalty is tested, and political survival requires constant vigilance. Kasukuwere’s ability to remain relevant and powerful while others falter has earned him both respect and fear, with many now watching his every move closely.

“Kasukuwere is a master strategist,” said another commentator. “But aligning with him is not for the faint-hearted. Those who think they can ride on his coattails without risk are often proven wrong.”

As Kasukuwere continues to consolidate influence ahead of future political battles, activists and political watchers say his example should serve as a cautionary tale for politicians, civic leaders, and even donors, highlighting the high stakes of Zimbabwean political life and the intricate power plays that define it.

For now, Saviour Kasukuwere remains a figure both respected and feared — a political survivor whose associates are reminded, time and again, that proximity to power can be as perilous as it is advantageous.