Zanu PF youths express their strong support for President Emmerson Mnangagwa amidst a growing power struggle with his deputy, Constantino Chiwenga. Plans for public protests by war veterans opposing corruption and economic decline are countered by the youth’s commitment to thwart such demonstrations. Tensions within the party are escalating as internal factions prepare for the upcoming congress in 2027.
In a recurrence of historical tensions, supporters of President Emmerson Mnangagwa from Zanu PF youth have rallied behind him amidst rising contention with his deputy, Constantino Chiwenga. During the inauguration of Mnangagwa’s Youth Fund in Harare, John Paradza, Deputy Secretary for Youth Affairs, asserted that the youth faction would actively resist planned protests by disgruntled war veterans seeking to challenge Mnangagwa’s leadership.
The event echoed sentiments from 2017 when Zanu PF youths, including Kudzai Chipanga and Anastancia Ndhlovu, apologized publicly for their support of former President Robert Mugabe during factional disputes. Recently, attendees rallied fervently for Mnangagwa, chanting slogans that encourage him to maintain power until 2030, despite contravening constitutional mandates.
War veterans, led by Blessed Geza, have scheduled protests for March 31, targeting corruption and economic troubles stemming from Mnangagwa’s administration. They have urged the public to participate actively in this demonstration. Geza has openly criticized Mnangagwa and his associates while supporting Chiwenga as the alternative leader capable of rectifying Zimbabwe’s current dire situation.
In response to the threat of unrest, Paradza confidently stated, “What I can assure you is that as long as I still deputise Machakaire in this wing there will not be any demonstration,” to the enthusiastic approval of the youth assembly at the Harare International Conference Centre. He emphasized the youth league’s responsibility to protect the President and the party from dissent.
Information Minister Jenfan Muswere labeled Geza’s criticisms as delusional, indicating that Zanu PF has taken decisive action by removing Geza from the party following his provocative statements. Muswere urged Zimbabweans to dismiss Geza’s comments, framing them as misleading distractions from productive political discourse.
As Zanu PF approaches its elective congress in 2027, internal factions are evident, particularly between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga. Despite previous expectations that Chiwenga would succeed Mnangagwa, he appears to have been sidelined, prompting open critique from party members. Notably, spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa described Chiwenga in disparaging terms, labeling him as unelectable and unworthy of leadership.
The current political landscape in Zimbabwe is marked by significant internal strife within the Zanu PF party. Supporters of President Mnangagwa strongly defend his leadership while opposing calls for protests led by war veterans who demand accountability and reform. As tensions rise ahead of the 2027 congress, the rivalry between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga underscores potential vulnerabilities in the party, further complicating Zimbabwe’s political climate.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
