Zimbabwe’s Succession Battle: Cues from Military Exercises and Internal Dissent

In Zimbabwe, military activity has spurred speculation of a coup amid internal dissent in Zanu-PF. War veteran Blessed Geza, known as Bombshell, publicly criticizes President Mnangagwa and his potential third-term aspirations, prompting a purge within the party. The socio-economic crisis continues to deepen, with calls for early elections amidst widespread disillusionment. The political scene remains fragmented, with no immediate resolution in sight regarding leadership succession.

In Zimbabwe, recent military exercises and the emergence of internal dissent within the ruling Zanu-PF party have reignited discussions about political succession. Concerns sparked among the populace following the deployment of armored tanks, reminiscent of past coups. While government officials dismissed fears of a coup, President Emmerson Mnangagwa faced unprecedented criticism from within his party, reminiscent of the backlashes preceding former leader Robert Mugabe’s ousting.

Prominent war veteran Blessed Geza, nicknamed “Bombshell,” has been vocally critical of President Mnangagwa. Geza’s discontent stems from party members’ proposals to amend laws permitting the president to pursue a third term. In a series of press conferences, he publicly demanded Mnangagwa’s resignation, stating, “I must apologise for helping him come into office,” revealing his frustrations with the president’s governance and alleged nepotism.

His remarks, deemed treasonous by Zanu-PF, compelled Geza to evade authorities while continuing to issue statements via social media regarding protests against the government. He faces legal charges that include inciting public unrest. Alongside Geza, those in media, such as journalist Blessed Mhlanga, also confront repercussions for their roles in broadcasting opinions on governance issues.

The tensions relate to ongoing speculation regarding Mnangagwa’s extended presidency, with supporters claiming he must remain to complete developmental objectives, such as his “Agenda 2030”. Nonetheless, constitutional limits endorse two five-year terms, prompting unease among observers. Mnangagwa assured the public of his intention to step down before 2028, yet church leaders have voiced dissent over the focus on potential term extensions, urging attention towards the nation’s socio-economic challenges.

Geza’s controversial stance has elicited an internal purge within Zanu-PF, although analysts suggest his efforts may not mobilize significant public support at this juncture. Various factions within the party and among war veterans illustrate a fragmented political landscape, leading to uncertainty about any collective action. Political commentators have noted that the populace, fatigued from previous engagements in political unrest, may not rally behind internal struggles within the ruling party.

The political backdrop also underscores the dire economic situation; citizens face escalating challenges with unemployment and food scarcity, which erode public trust in party leadership. Timba, a leader of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), emphasizes these grievances, asserting that the government must seek its mandate through early elections.

Despite the challenges, the likelihood of an early election remains low, while Geza remains in hiding amidst ongoing succession debates, marking a tumultuous period in Zimbabwe’s political landscape that will undoubtedly continue to evolve.

In summary, the political landscape of Zimbabwe is experiencing upheaval as President Mnangagwa faces criticism from within the Zanu-PF party, highlighted by war veteran Bombshell’s outbursts against potential changes to presidential term limits. The public’s concerns are exacerbated by a struggling economy and fears of unrest. Although internal conflicts arise, analysts suggest that the wider populace remains disinterested in engaging with these issues. The situation remains tense as the nation awaits further developments in the succession debate.

Original Source: www.bbc.com