Colonel Minyothabo Baloyi, wife of Zimbabwean Deputy President Constantino Chiwenga, has been accused by former legislator Temba Mliswa of using her position in Military Intelligence to support her husband’s political aspirations. Mliswa alleged that Baloyi, a senior officer in the Military Intelligence Department, is operating a “parallel structure” within the security forces and undermining President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Mliswa claimed Baloyi’s actions are tied to Chiwenga’s reported opposition to efforts by Mnangagwa allies to extend the president’s rule beyond 2028. He also suggested that a recent power outage during Mnangagwa’s State of the Nation Address was an act of sabotage by Chiwenga’s camp. Mliswa argued that Baloyi’s dual role as a military intelligence officer and the vice president’s spouse creates a conflict of interest, asserting that her presence in uniform blurs the line between state security and political influence.
Baloyi, known for her low public profile and charitable work, has not commented on the allegations and has never expressed political ambitions. The accusations reflect intensifying factional tensions within Zanu-PF as succession debates grow ahead of the 2028 elections.
Mliswa claimed Baloyi’s actions are tied to Chiwenga’s reported opposition to efforts by Mnangagwa allies to extend the president’s rule beyond 2028. He also suggested that a recent power outage during Mnangagwa’s State of the Nation Address was an act of sabotage by Chiwenga’s camp. Mliswa argued that Baloyi’s dual role as a military intelligence officer and the vice president’s spouse creates a conflict of interest, asserting that her presence in uniform blurs the line between state security and political influence.
Baloyi, known for her low public profile and charitable work, has not commented on the allegations and has never expressed political ambitions. The accusations reflect intensifying factional tensions within Zanu-PF as succession debates grow ahead of the 2028 elections.
