Zimbabwe’s Minister of National Security, Lovemore Matuke, warns war veterans planning protests against President Mnangagwa. The protests relate to economic grievances attributed to poor leadership. Tensions within Zanu PF grow as factions emerge over the 2030 agenda, affecting party unity. War veteran Blessed Geza, opposing Mnangagwa’s leadership, faces legal challenges.
Lovemore Matuke, Zimbabwe’s Minister of State for National Security, issued a stern warning to war veterans and other groups planning protests against President Emmerson Mnangagwa. He emphasized that security forces are prepared to act decisively if protests occur. The unrest arises from the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA), which intends to demonstrate on March 20, seeking accountability amidst the nation’s economic troubles, citing leadership issues and corruption as contributing factors.
Matuke dismissed the planned protests as unfounded social media speculation from the diaspora. Speaking during the groundbreaking of Zishumbe Clinic in the Masvingo North constituency, he expressed confidence in the government’s unity and its commitment to the 2030 agenda. According to him, regardless of the rumors, the authorities are ready for any civil disturbances. “There is nothing like that… if there are any planned protests, we want to warn you that we are ready and we will be waiting to deal with such.”
The 2030 agenda seems to have created rifts within the ruling Zanu PF party, revealing two factions. One faction, loyal to Mnangagwa, advocates for suspending the 2028 elections to extend his presidency, while another faction, led by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, insists on adhering to constitutional term limits. Although Mnangagwa claims to be a constitutionalist not intending to exceed his terms, he has not reprimanded those pushing for an extension.
Additionally, the ZNLWVA opposes Mnangagwa’s bid for a third term and has shown support for war veteran Blessed Geza, who has been outspoken against the 2030 agenda. Geza is currently evading law enforcement efforts following the issuance of a manhunt for his involvement in several charges, including inciting public violence and defying presidential authority.
Zimbabwean Minister Lovemore Matuke has conveyed a strong stance against planned protests, labeling them as mere social media noise. Tensions within the ruling Zanu PF party reveal conflicting agendas regarding President Mnangagwa’s term limits, with dissenting war veterans expressing discontent over leadership and economic crises. The situation remains dynamic as the government prepares to address any civil unrest.
Original Source: allafrica.com
