The rise of Gideon Gono

hat should be the preserve of the executive arm of government. Even the finance minister, Herbert Murerwa, now plays second fiddle.
Observers say “Leave it all to Gono” is now official government policy. “He is now the de facto prime minister of the country filling in the vacuum created by a clueless President and an emasculated cabinet,” says one source.
This has led to speculation that Gono’s long held ambition to be President of the country may not after all be a fanciful dream.
This has led to speculation that Gono’s long held ambition to be President of the country may not after all be a fanciful dream. Here is how Gono has risen to the top and will continue to do so until he gets the presidency  – or spectacularly crashes:
– entered Mugabe’s inner circle by becoming his family’s banker and financial adviser;
– ued his relationship with Emmerson Munangagwa – to whom he is related by marriage – to embed himself in Zanu (PF’s) inner sanctum;
– was appointed to Grace Mugabe’s Children Rehabilitation Fund Board raising substantial amounts for the body.  Became business advisor and consultant to the First Lady;
– used his position as managing director of Commercial Bank of Zimbabwe (CBZ) to dispense substantial loans to politicians in local and foreign currencies. “Consider it done” was Gono’s trademark response to request for money from the political elite.
– forged close relationships with Nicholas Goche (Security and Intelligence); Jonathan Moyo (Information in the President Office) and Augustine Chihuri (Commissioner of Police) to further entrench his position;
– got appointed chairman of Zimbabwe Broadcasting Holdings (ZBH).  As ZBH chair, increased his national exposure on television soon attaining title of ” turnaround specialist” Failing parastatals and ZANU (PF) bigwigs turned to him for financial help;
– intervened in overcoming shortages of basic commodies such as sugar and cooking oil.  Travelled to Libya with Mugabe to structure a deal to secure fuel for Zimbabwe.
In the battle to succeed Mugabe, Gono has aligned himself with the Munangagwa faction opposed to the one led by retired army general Solomon Mujuru.  Blinded by ambition, he seems oblivious to the dangers of treading on a political minefield.  His tirade against those who brandish liberation war credentials to intimidate him – a reference to Mujuru – shows he has now entered the political arena with guns blazing.