Pressure Mounts on Mnangagwa Ahead of March 31 Protests Amid ZANU-PF Split
President Emmerson Mnangagwa is under pressure due to planned protests on March 31, driven by internal discontent within ZANU-PF and calls for his resignation from war veterans. Factional divisions within the party emerge, as some support Mnangagwa while others advocate for his deputy, Chiwenga. Mnangagwa urges unity and effective governance in response to these challenges.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa faces growing pressure in light of planned protests scheduled for March 31, exacerbated by recent challenges to his administration characterized by allegations of corruption and cronyism. The ZANU-PF party appears to be on the verge of significant internal discord, with discontented war veterans advocating for Mnangagwa’s resignation.
Blessed Geza, a former ZANU-PF Central Committee member, is reportedly leading a faction that seeks to position Mnangagwa’s deputy, Constantino Chiwenga, as the new head of state. Geza has called for nationwide protests, encouraging citizens to participate in the March 31 demonstrations.
In a recent Politburo meeting, President Mnangagwa urged Zimbabweans to disregard calls for protests, emphasizing national unity. He stated, “I applaud all my fellow citizens… for their clarity, national consciousness and patriotism that continue to squash efforts by malcontents and rogue delusional elements bent on disturbing our peace… ZANU PF is an unstoppable train.”
The ZANU-PF party is reportedly divided, with one faction supporting Mnangagwa’s continued leadership beyond the constitutional two-term limit, while another faction favors Chiwenga. Geza has acknowledged Chiwenga as the “Commander” and indicated him as the preferred successor should efforts to oust Mnangagwa materialize.
Further, Mnangagwa reiterated the strength of ZANU-PF, emphasizing the need for the party to be a proactive force addressing the needs of the people. He likened the party’s constitution to the roots and trunk of a tree, urging members to adhere strictly to the party’s guiding principles and respond effectively to national challenges.
The President called for collaboration within the party’s structure, emphasizing that all levels, from local cells to the Politburo, must provide honest leadership focused on improving the livelihoods of citizens and ensuring party unity.
In summary, President Emmerson Mnangagwa is grappling with internal dissent within ZANU-PF amid upcoming protests. With calls for his resignation from discontented factions and the potential rise of Constantino Chiwenga, the situation has escalated. Mnangagwa’s calls for unity and proactive governance highlight the critical challenges facing his administration ahead of the March 31 protests.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
