Ethan Mathibela Placed on Security Watchlist Amidst Opposition to Mnangagwa
Ethan Mathibela, chairman of ZNLWVA, is on a security watchlist as he opposes Mnangagwa’s extended term and calls for protests. State Security Minister warns against such demonstrations, while police deny authority to sanction them. A directive has barred Mathibela from leaving the country, and his recent press conference was disrupted by unidentified youths.
Ethan Mathibela, the chairman of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA), has been identified as a security interest and placed on a watchlist according to a leaked memo from the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO). The ZNLWVA opposes the extension of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term beyond 2028, advocating for nationwide protests to highlight issues such as the economic crisis, government accountability, and demands for economic freedom.
In response to these protests, State Security Minister Lovemore Matuke emphasized that any demonstrations against President Mnangagwa will be met with firm actions. The CIO operates under Matuke’s ministry and is associated with the Office of the President. Furthermore, police chief Mutamba conveyed that he does not possess the authority to approve any protests, thus overshadowing hopes for the anticipated demonstrations.
A correspondence from the President’s department to immigration offices mandates that Mathibela be prevented from leaving the country through various border posts. The letter explicitly instructs officials at Plumtree, Maitengwe, or Mphoengs Border Posts to deny Mathibela any exit attempt and to notify the President’s Department immediately.
Additionally, there was a recent incident where unidentified youths disrupted Mathibela’s press conference held at the Bulawayo Media Centre, signaling increased tension surrounding the situation.
In summary, Ethan Mathibela has been placed on a security watchlist due to his opposition to President Mnangagwa’s extended term and calls for nationwide protests. The State Security Minister has warned against any demonstrations, and the police have indicated a lack of authority to sanction such events. Notably, a directive has been issued to prevent Mathibela from leaving Zimbabwe, reflecting the government’s posture towards dissent. Unrest was further illustrated by a disruption at a press conference held by Mathibela.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
