Zimbabwe’s Political Turmoil: Succession Drama and Economic Troubles
Recent military displays in Harare sparked fears of a coup in Zimbabwe, coinciding with internal strife within President Mnangagwa’s Zanu-PF party. Criticism led by Blessed Geza has raised concerns over corruption and potential changes to presidential term limits. While the Catholic Church intervened, analysts suggest diminishing public interest in political mobilization. The economic crunch further complicates the political climate, forecasting a turbulent future for Zimbabwe’s governance.
In Zimbabwe, a recent display of military force in Harare raised concerns about a potential coup, prompting government spokesperson Nick Mangwana to clarify that the tanks were part of a scheduled exercise. This incident coincided with internal dissent within President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Zanu-PF party, as he faced harsh criticism and calls for resignation, echoing circumstances leading to the previous coup that removed Robert Mugabe from power.
Blessed Geza, a prominent Zanu-PF member also known as “Bombshell,” vocally challenged President Mnangagwa’s leadership amid rumors of constitutional changes to extend his term. Geza’s discontent stemmed from perceived corruption and the president’s consolidation of power. He publicly proclaimed, “I must apologise for helping him come into office,” expressing regret over his support for Mnangagwa, now facing backlash for prioritizing personal interests over the populace.
Despite facing accusations of treachery for his remarks, resulting in a police pursuit, Geza continues to rally support via social media. His provocative comments align with growing tensions within Zanu-PF regarding Mnangagwa’s ambitions to secure a third term, which was implicitly endorsed by party members during recent conferences.
In reaction to the unfolding political drama, Zimbabwe’s Catholic Bishops Conference criticized the discussions surrounding a potential third term as a distraction from critical social and economic issues such as unemployment and corruption. Presidential spokesperson George Charamba expressed disappointment over this intervention, asserting that the matter is “dead and buried.”
Geza’s challenges to Mnangagwa have catalyzed a purge within Zanu-PF, leading to his expulsion. However, analysts such as Takura Zhangazha note that Geza’s dissent may not galvanize mass support, as the public appears disinterested in political upheavals compared to the 2017 coup that ousted Mugabe. There are fewer indications that citizens will mobilize in support of internal battles within Zanu-PF.
Furthermore, differing loyalties among political factions complicate the landscape. While Geza indicated support for Vice-President Constantine Chiwenga, divisions exist among war veterans themselves, with some supporting the 2030 agenda for extended leadership. Observers indicate that grievances arise from personal desires for power rather than genuine public welfare concerns.
With economic deterioration affecting citizens intensely, including the closure of major retailers like OK Zimbabwe and high unemployment rates, the atmosphere remains tense. This disarray is further exacerbated by recent USAID funding suspensions, signaling an uncertain economic future.
The opposition landscape remains fraught as well, with leaders like Jameson Timba criticizing the government for extending presidential terms in light of public discontent. Echoing concerns about the illegitimacy of extending political terms, Timba stated, “Any leader or government worth his salt would actually call for an early election.”
As Geza remains in hiding and elections are on a distant horizon, the succession debates within Zimbabwe’s political framework are likely to become increasingly intense in the years to come, reflecting deep-seated tensions within society.
The political landscape in Zimbabwe is marked by growing tensions within the ruling Zanu-PF party, as President Emmerson Mnangagwa faces significant challenges to his leadership from within. Blessed Geza’s outspoken criticism highlights the internal conflict regarding potential term extensions, amidst rising public discontent over economic issues. Political analysts suggest that the public’s interest has waned, complicating the prospects for mobilization in support of dissenting voices. With the opposition struggling and the economic situation deteriorating, the future political scene in Zimbabwe appears uncertain and fraught with challenges.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
