A new cabinet announced by Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Monday has sparked criticism from the opposition and some observers, who accuse him of nepotism and favouritism.
Among the new appointees are Mr Mnangagwa’s son, David Kudakwashe, who becomes the deputy finance minister, and his nephew, Tongai Mnangagwa, who takes up the deputy tourism portfolio. Both are part of the youth quota in parliament.
The finance ministry is headed by Mthuli Ncube, a former banker who was reappointed to the post. Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, the national chairperson of the ruling Zanu-PF party, also retains her position as the defence minister.
Fadzayi Mahere, a lawmaker from the main opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), slammed the cabinet as “indefensible” and said Mr Mnangagwa was promoting nepotism. She questioned the qualifications and suitability of his relatives for their respective roles.
The presidency and the ruling party have not responded to the criticism. However, some of Mr Mnangagwa’s supporters have defended his son’s appointment, saying he has the necessary skills and experience.
Mr Mnangagwa’s re-election in August was marred by allegations of fraud and irregularities by the opposition and some observers, who said the poll did not meet regional and international standards.
