Minister of State for National Security Lovemore Matuke warned against planned protests from war veterans, stating the government is prepared to manage any unrest. The protests, scheduled for March 20, aim to address accountability and economic crises, attributed to government failures. Internal strife within the ruling Zanu PF party regarding the 2030 agenda has further exacerbated tensions, particularly with critics like Blessed Geza facing legal action.
Lovemore Matuke, the Minister of State for National Security, has issued a stark warning to war veterans and protests groups planning demonstrations against President Emmerson Mnangagwa. He emphasized the government’s preparedness to manage any unrest and described the planned protests as insignificant chatter emerging from social media, particularly from the diaspora. Matuke spoke during the groundbreaking ceremony of Zishumbe Clinic in Masvingo North constituency.
The Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) has announced intentions to protest on March 20, focusing on issues such as government accountability and the economic crisis they attribute to corruption and ineffective leadership. In response, Matuke labeled these plans as unfounded and cautioned that security forces are ready to act if such protests materialize.
Matuke reiterated the unity of Zanu PF leadership under President Mnangagwa while addressing concerns regarding the party’s future direction. There exists a growing division within the ruling party surrounding the 2030 agenda, with a faction supporting Mnangagwa’s extended tenure and another adhering to constitutional limits. Despite claims of being a constitutionalist, Mnangagwa has not publicly condemned efforts to extend his presidency.
The internal conflict within Zanu PF reflects broader discontent, as prominent members like Blessed Geza, a vocal critic of the party’s direction, garner support against Mnangagwa’s proposed third term. Following a police crackdown, Geza has entered hiding to evade charges that include inciting public violence and undermining the President’s authority.
In summary, Minister Lovemore Matuke’s statements emphasize the government’s readiness to counter any planned protests against President Mnangagwa. The looming discord within the Zanu PF party regarding the 2030 agenda poses significant implications for Zimbabwe’s political landscape, revealing deep-seated conflicts over leadership and governance. Moreover, the situation surrounding war veteran Blessed Geza highlights the increasing tensions and challenges faced by dissenters within the political sphere.
Original Source: allafrica.com
