President Emmerson Mnangagwa is under pressure from internal ZANU-PF challenges and planned protests on March 31. Disgruntled factions, led by war veterans like Blessed Geza, are pushing for a leadership change to Constantino Chiwenga. Mnangagwa has called for unity and vigilance within the party, emphasizing adherence to the Constitution during this upheaval.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa is currently facing significant pressure due to the impending protests set for March 31, amidst escalating challenges to his leadership characterized by accusations of corruption and cronyism. The internal dynamics within ZANU-PF are tumultuous, particularly with disgruntled war veterans demanding Mnangagwa’s resignation. Notably, former Central Committee member Blessed Geza is openly advocating for nationwide protests and is reportedly championing a leadership shift towards Mnangagwa’s deputy, Constantino Chiwenga.
During a recent Politburo meeting, President Mnangagwa urged Zimbabweans to disregard the calls for protests, emphasizing the need for unity and patriotism among citizens. He stated, “I applaud all my fellow citizens from across the country, for their clarity, national consciousness and patriotism that continue to squash efforts by malcontents and rogue delusional elements bent on disturbing our peace, unity and harmony.” Mnangagwa asserted that Zimbabwe’s sovereignty will endure, describing ZANU-PF as an “unstoppable train.”
The ZANU-PF party appears to be split, with factions either supporting Mnangagwa’s continuation in power or backing Chiwenga’s potential ascension. Geza has publicly recognized Chiwenga as the preferred leader for disgruntled veterans should the plan to oust Mnangagwa materialize. Meanwhile, Mnangagwa insists on the strength of ZANU-PF, calling for party vigilance and commitment to the Constitution.
Mnangagwa described the Party Constitution as “sacred,” likening it to the roots and trunk of a tree, with members representing its branches. He encouraged ZANU-PF to prioritize responding to the needs of the populace, emphasizing the importance of coordination across all levels of the party to foster effective leadership.
In summary, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration faces mounting pressures from within ZANU-PF and from external protest actions planned for March 31. Despite challenges including calls for his resignation from within the party, he continues to advocate for unity among citizens and adherence to the party’s Constitution. The internal divisions between factions supporting either Mnangagwa or Chiwenga indicate a critical juncture for ZANU-PF’s future stability and leadership.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
