Zanu PF youths have pledged their support for President Mnangagwa amid confrontations with Deputy Chiwenga and upcoming protests from war veterans. As tensions escalate, party officials aim to suppress dissent and unify the party ahead of the 2027 congress.
Zanu PF youths have demonstrated their support for President Emmerson Mnangagwa amidst ongoing tensions with his deputy, Constantino Chiwenga. During the launch of Mnangagwa’s Youth Fund in Harare, Deputy Secretary for Youth Affairs John Paradza pledged that the youth will actively oppose planned protests from dissatisfied war veterans, indicating a repeat of the party dynamics seen in 2017.
In 2017, Zanu PF youths such as Kudzai Chipanga and Anastancia Ndhlovu publicly supported late President Robert Mugabe, leading to their eventual public apologies after defeats. At the recent event, thousands of youths voiced their support for Mnangagwa with chants promoting his leadership until 2030, which contradicts constitutional principles.
War veterans, organized by Blessed Geza, have announced a protest for March 31 against perceived corruption within Mnangagwa’s administration and the country’s declining economy. Geza has openly criticized Mnangagwa and his associates, positioning Chiwenga as a more suitable leader to address Zimbabwe’s issues.
Paradza assured the crowd that no demonstrations would occur while he serves as deputy to Machakaire, dispelling concerns over social media threats. He emphasized the youth league’s responsibility to protect the president and party unity, receiving enthusiastic applause from attendees.
Information Minister Jenfan Muswere characterized Geza’s remarks as delusional, and Zanu PF subsequently moved to expel him from the party following his initial statements. Muswere urged citizens to disregard Geza’s rhetoric, labeling it as an ineffective attempt to promote personal ambition.
The ongoing internal conflict within Zanu PF highlights the rivalry between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga as the party gears up for the elective congress in 2027. Chiwenga, previously seen as a potential successor, appears marginalized despite his key role in Mnangagwa’s rise to power during the 2017 coup, with criticisms branching out even from the party spokesperson, Christopher Mutsvangwa, who called Chiwenga unelectable and deficient in leadership qualities.
The support from Zanu PF youths for President Mnangagwa amid factional strife illustrates ongoing political dynamics within the party. As war veterans mobilize protests against perceived corruption, internal party challenges persist, showcasing rivalries that may influence future leadership and electoral outcomes. The dismissal of dissenters like Blessed Geza signals an effort to maintain control and party unity as they approach critical elections in 2027.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
