By Staff Reporter
Presidential adviser Paul Tungwarara says his efforts are aimed at safeguarding the reputation of President Emmerson Mnangagwa rather than engaging in personal battles, as he seeks to open dialogue with former government critic Rutendo Matinyarare.
The development follows a public exchange between the two, during which Tungwarara extended what he described as a gesture of goodwill by offering Matinyarare a Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series and inviting him to participate in a roundtable discussion.
According to Tungwarara, the intention is to encourage reconciliation and reduce tensions that have played out in the public arena in recent months.
He said he believes Matinyarare has shown a willingness to engage constructively and expressed hope that future engagements would focus on national development rather than public disputes. As part of preparations for their proposed meeting, Tungwarara invited Matinyarare to collect the vehicle when he is next in Harare.
Tungwarara stressed that he holds no personal animosity toward anyone and maintains that his primary responsibility is to defend the President’s image. While acknowledging that he has followed Matinyarare’s work over the years, he said he was concerned by what he viewed as repeated criticism directed at President Mnangagwa.
He also questioned the effectiveness of social media as a platform for resolving disagreements, arguing that sensitive matters are better addressed through direct engagement and dialogue.
Responding to the proposal, Matinyarare admitted that frustration had contributed to his decision to air grievances publicly. He said he had previously undertaken assignments on behalf of individuals linked to government structures and had faced professional and personal risks while advocating for Zimbabwe internationally.
Matinyarare further claimed that despite making sacrifices in support of the country, he felt abandoned when it came to compensation and recognition for his efforts.
Despite those concerns, he welcomed Tungwarara’s outreach and agreed that dialogue offered a path toward resolving outstanding issues. He said reconciliation and nation-building should remain the priority and expressed readiness to participate in discussions aimed at finding common ground.
Tungwarara, in turn, reiterated his willingness to listen to concerns raised by Matinyarare and said he remains committed to constructive engagement. He urged a reduction in public hostilities while preparations for the proposed meeting continue.
The exchange has attracted significant public attention, with many observers viewing the gesture and invitation as an attempt to replace public confrontation with direct dialogue. Matinyarare has since indicated that a family representative has been tasked with collecting the vehicle in Harare on his behalf.
