Volatile Elite Networks and the Race for the Zimbabwean Succession

Abstract

This paper is a work in progress analysis of the power structures within elite Zimbabwean politics. This project is in support of ongoing research at the Network Science Center at West Point and the original intent of this study was to compile a historical dataset of an influence network over time and to model how the network reacts to both external and internal disruptions. The conclusions and analysis will change as new data is collected and analyses are available. This analysis was conducted several months before the apparent coup in response to Emmerson Mnangagwa's removal as vice-president.