Mashonaland East Provincial Chairman and Murehwa North Member of Parliament, Honourable Daniel Garwe, has dismissed reports alleging a decline in his political support, insisting the claims are “fabricated narratives” disconnected from realities on the ground.
Recent media reports suggested rising dissatisfaction with Hon. Garwe’s leadership. However, interviews with party officials, traditional leaders, community representatives, and residents across the constituency paint a sharply different picture one of ongoing development, active engagement, and sustained grassroots support.
Speaking on the sidelines of a whirlwind constituency tour that has been ongoing for the past fortnight, Hon. Garwe said ZANU PF structures are being rejuvenated through the exercise, adding that the large turnout at engagement meetings speaks for itself.
“This story is a fabrication meant to create a crisis where none exists,” said Hon. Garwe.
“My focus has always been service delivery, development, and improving the lives of the people of Murehwa North. The record speaks for itself.”
“We will not be deterred by rogue elements. We have been on the ground for more than two weeks,” he added.
“During this engagement, we are visiting all 22 party districts.
“Our party members are set to receive 100 tonnes of mealie meal and 20 tonnes of fertiliser.
“Each party district will receive 1 500 bags of mealie meal, and the distribution of top-dressing fertiliser has already commenced.
“We are here to buttress the success of Vision 2030.”
Hon. Garwe cited ongoing road rehabilitation, water infrastructure expansion, rural electrification, and support for schools and health facilities as visible indicators of progress.
“Development is not a slogan; it is visible,” he said.
Community leaders backed Hon. Garwe’s remarks, insisting the negative claims are baseless.
“Anyone who lives here knows this story is not true.
“The Minister is always on the ground. We have seen roads opened, water projects being implemented, and assistance extended to schools. People respect him for that,” said Provincial Education Secretary Cde Wellington Kadembetembe.
Party officials also dismissed suggestions of internal divisions or declining popularity.
“There is no crisis in Murehwa North.
“The structures are intact, mobilisation is strong, and people are firmly behind their MP because they can see development.
“He has been touring and engaging with his people for the past fortnight,” said Councillor Anyway Nheweyembwa.
Residents interviewed echoed similar sentiments, accusing unnamed actors of attempting to sow discontent for political gain.
“These stories emerge whenever outside interests want to destabilise the constituency.
“But the truth is, Hon. Garwe is delivering,” said Mr John Chinyonga, a local business owner.
Others rejected claims that Hon. Garwe is detached from grassroots issues, saying he regularly attends ward meetings, development committee sessions, and community programmes.
“He does not just appear during campaigns.
“We meet him regularly. Issues are raised and followed up,” added Councillor Nheweyembwa.
Party insiders said the surge in negative reports should be viewed in the context of growing political interest in the constituency, rather than a collapse of support.
“Murehwa North has become attractive because of the development taking place.
“That naturally draws attention and competition, but it should not be mistaken for rejection of the sitting MP.”
Hon. Garwe said he remains focused on delivering his mandate.
“My loyalty is to the people who elected me.
“As long as they continue to see development and progress, no amount of misinformation will change the truth on the ground,” he said.
Sources within the constituency say several development projects are set to expand this year, a move expected to further solidify Hon. Garwe’s standing and debunk claims that his leadership is under threat.