Harare: Zanu PF’s succession battle has now moved to the women platform with reports that camps have emerged pitting secretary Oppah Muchinguri who is battling to retain her portfolio in the August congress despite strong opposition from the other camp led by Vice President Joice Mujuru.

Mujuru is pushing to control the powerful portfolio to ready herself for an onslaught on Mugabe during the party’s national congress that will be held at the end of the year.

But Muchinguri is ready to fight on and back Mugabe, the 84 year old who has been at the helm of the country since the country attained independence 28 years ago.

Party sources said Mujuru and Muchinguri who were once close friends have over the years battled on who is more powerful.

“Muchinguri feels as the secretary of the women’s league she is more powerful and as long as Mujuru is also a member of that group then she ( Muchinguri) is the boss.

But Mujuru argues that she must have a bigger say as she is the overall second in charge of the party,” said a source.

As a way of pushing her agenda, Muchinguri has already indicated that she will be contesting to retain her position.

“I’m the secretary and I will be seeking re-election,” said Muchinguri who has been on a nationwide tour to mobilize support during the election.

On the other hand, Mujuru’ camp is said to be looking for possible candidate to contest Muchinguri.

The women’s wing is a powerful party arm, which draws a significant number of members who back Zanu-PF.

A candidate with the backing of the women’ league takes a significant stride in getting more support to for bigger post in the party.

Mujuru, through the support of the women’s league wrestled the vice presidency post in 2005, thwarting efforts by another contender Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Additional reporting:Zimeye