Pressure Mounts on Mnangagwa Amidst ZANU-PF Turmoil and Planned Protests

The article discusses President Mnangagwa’s struggle against internal dissent in ZANU-PF, particularly from war veterans demanding his resignation and calls for protests on March 31. Divisions within the party grow as factions emerge to support different leadership goals. Mnangagwa urges unity and response to citizens’ needs amidst these challenges.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa faces mounting pressure due to anticipated protests on March 31, amid escalating challenges to his administration, characterized by allegations of corruption and cronyism. Intra-party dissent within ZANU-PF is intensifying, particularly led by dissatisfied war veterans demanding Mnangagwa’s resignation. Notably, former ZANU-PF Central Committee member Blessed Geza is proposing that leadership be transferred to Mnangagwa’s deputy, Constantino Chiwenga, and has publicly called for the impending protests.

During a recent Politburo meeting, President Mnangagwa appealed to citizens to disregard the protest calls. He expressed gratitude for their patriotism and commitment to maintaining national peace and unity. 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.” He emphasized ZANU-PF’s position as an “unstoppable train” that will continue to advance.

Internal division within ZANU-PF appears evident, with one faction supporting President Mnangagwa’s desire to extend his leadership beyond two terms, while another supports Chiwenga’s rise to power. Last week, Geza expressed his respect for Chiwenga, acknowledging him as the “Commander” and identifying him as the preferred successor should there be a successful movement to oust Mnangagwa.

President Mnangagwa reiterated the strength of ZANU-PF and urged vigilance among party members. He remarked, “Our Party Constitution is sacred, it is like roots and the trunk of a tree, and we, the members, are its branches.” Furthermore, he challenged the party to respond effectively to citizens’ needs and stressed the importance of leadership and support at all levels of the party in addressing challenges facing the communities.

In summary, President Mnangagwa navigates increasing challenges from within his own party ahead of the March 31 protests. Divisions within the ZANU-PF complicate his leadership as factions vie for power, particularly with Bless Geza backing Constantino Chiwenga. Mnangagwa’s appeal for unity and a strong party response to citizen needs underscores the critical state of the political landscape in Zimbabwe.

Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com