ZIMBABWE is sliding deeper into political uncertainty as internal divisions within the ruling Zanu-PF party intensify over plans to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s time in office beyond the constitutionally mandated limit.
Protests were called earlier this week by a faction opposed to Mnangagwa’s continued leadership, prompting authorities to deploy large numbers of police across Harare and other cities. Streets were largely deserted as security forces cracked down and arrested at least 95 people accused of inciting violence.
Officially, Zanu-PF maintains that the president’s leadership remains unshaken. According to party officials, the protests were exaggerated online and failed to gain traction on the ground. They insist Mnangagwa’s focus remains on economic reform and governance.
But within the party, the cracks are widening. The push to extend Mnangagwa’s presidency from 2028 to 2030, first floated in January, has sparked a fierce internal debate. Supporters of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga—once an ally of Mnangagwa—have begun rallying for a leadership change.
War veterans turn on the president
One of the most striking developments has been the shift in loyalty among Zimbabwe’s war veterans, historically a cornerstone of Zanu-PF support. Prominent figures like Blessed Geza, known by his wartime alias Comrade Bombshell, have turned against Mnangagwa and are now backing Chiwenga.
Geza has used social media to level serious accusations against the president and top officials, alleging corruption and economic mismanagement. In response, he was expelled from Zanu-PF and branded a traitor, but his popularity continues to grow.
At the same time, billionaire businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei, a close ally of Mnangagwa and a major player in sectors like energy and mining, was recently appointed to the party’s Central Committee. The move sparked speculation that Tagwirei could emerge as a powerbroker—or even a potential successor—within the ruling elite.
Tensions between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga have also been bubbling beneath the surface. In a speech earlier this year, Chiwenga appeared to criticise corrupt dealings by business elites tied to the presidency, calling out “tenderpreneurs” who he claimed were undermining Zimbabwe’s development agenda.
Succession battles and military calculations
Though Mnangagwa has denied any intention to remain in power beyond 2028, critics argue that his actions suggest otherwise. Some analysts believe he may be angling to amend the constitution or anoint a loyalist to continue his political legacy—moves that have ignited resistance from within his own ranks.
Observers point out that Zanu-PF has never undergone a peaceful internal transition in its history, and Mnangagwa’s failure to deliver on promises of economic reform has left him politically vulnerable.
The president’s association with controversial figures like businessman Wicknell Chivayo, who is widely criticised for flaunting wealth despite failing to deliver on key infrastructure projects, has only deepened public mistrust. His repeated public appearances alongside such individuals have drawn sharp criticism from political commentators.
For many Zimbabweans, Mnangagwa’s 2017 promise of a new democratic era has fallen flat. Economic hardship, persistent cronyism, and the shrinking space for dissent have fuelled frustrations—even within Zanu-PF itself.
As the power struggle escalates, all eyes are on Zimbabwe’s powerful military, which has historically played a kingmaker role in the country’s political affairs. Analysts suggest that the eventual outcome may hinge on which faction—Mnangagwa’s or Chiwenga’s—wins the backing of the armed forces.
With the battle for succession intensifying and public unrest simmering, Zimbabwe faces a period of heightened instability unless its leaders find a path toward unity and reform.
