Blessed R. Geza, a former member of Zanu PF, has vowed to fight for his reinstatement after being expelled, opposing President Mnangagwa’s efforts to extend his presidency until 2030. This declaration coincides with rising dissent among party war veterans regarding proposed constitutional amendments. Critics argue these plans undermine Zimbabwe’s democratic principles and raise questions about the party’s internal dynamics and future stability.
Former Zanu PF member Blessed R. Geza has publicly declared his intention to reclaim his position within the ruling party following his expulsion. In his recent statement, Geza expressed determination to challenge what he termed “Emmerson’s machinations” while striving to oppose President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s efforts to extend his presidential term until 2030. Geza affirmed his unwavering allegiance to Zanu PF, stating, “I remain Zanu PF to the core” and promised to confront the ongoing political developments head-on.
These remarks emerge amidst growing dissent among Zanu PF war veterans, who have voiced concern over Mnangagwa’s plans to push for an extended presidency. A faction of war veterans has reacted negatively to the perceived attempt to alter the constitutional two-term limit. This 2030 scheme, promoted by Mnangagwa’s loyalists, aims to delay the 2028 presidential elections by amending the Constitution, potentially allowing Mnangagwa to remain in power until 2030.
Critics argue that this maneuver undermines the 2013 Constitution, which was established to limit long-term presidencies following former leader Robert Mugabe’s extensive tenure. Within Zanu PF, friction is intensifying among members, particularly the faction led by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, which is reportedly opposing the move to extend Mnangagwa’s presidency. Some speculate that senior officials may discreetly support the war veterans’ criticism.
At a recent Zanu PF meeting, Munyaradzi Machacha, the national political commissar, reiterated the party’s commitment to pursuing the 2030 agenda, stating, “There is no going back in implementing the resolution”. He urged dissenters to express their concerns during official meetings rather than postulated a referendum on the proposed constitutional changes.
Civil society organizations and opposition entities have condemned the efforts to extend Mnangagwa’s administration, alleging that such actions threaten democratic principles. Critics warn that these constitutional amendments and election delays could destabilize Zimbabwe politically and harm its international credibility. Legal expert Lovemore Madhuku highlighted the challenges involved in amending the Constitution, noting that a referendum would reveal widespread public dissent towards the alterations to presidential term limits.
Geza’s assertive stance underscores the increasing tensions within Zanu PF and the broader national context. As factions vie for influence and opposition builds, the struggle for Zimbabwe’s political future is expected to escalate. Whether Mnangagwa’s supporters can achieve their goals or will encounter intensified resistance from party members and the public remains uncertain.
The political landscape in Zimbabwe has become increasingly fraught with tensions as factions within the ruling Zanu PF party clash over President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s potential bid to extend his presidency until 2030. Blessed R. Geza, a former party member, has emerged as a vocal opponent of these efforts, highlighting the internal divisions within the party and raising questions about the country’s commitment to democratic governance. The proposed constitutional amendments, aimed at postponing upcoming elections, have drawn backlash from various quarters, including civil society groups and war veterans, further complicating the political environment in Zimbabwe.
In conclusion, the political situation in Zimbabwe is marked by internal strife within the ruling Zanu PF party, as members like Blessed R. Geza oppose efforts to extend President Mnangagwa’s term. The discontent among war veterans and criticism from civil society underscore the significant challenges facing the ruling party. As factions continue to clash, the implications for Zimbabwe’s democratic future and political stability remain profound and uncertain.
Original Source: www.thezimbabwemail.com