Lovemore Matuke, Zimbabwe’s Minister for National Security, cautioned against planned protests by war veterans against President Mnangagwa, asserting that security is prepared to respond firmly. ZNLWVA is protesting against economic crises linked to government leadership. There are clear factions within Zanu PF regarding the 2030 agenda, complicating the political landscape further.
Minister of State for National Security, Lovemore Matuke, has issued a stern warning to war veterans and various groups planning protests against President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Expressing confidence, he stated that security forces are prepared to respond effectively to any demonstrations scheduled in the near future.
The discontented members of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) recently informed the police of their intention to protest on March 20. Their demands center around holding the government accountable and highlighting the prevailing economic crisis, which they link to incompetence, corruption, and favoritism.
During the groundbreaking ceremony for the Zishumbe Clinic in Masvingo North, Matuke dismissed the protests as mere “baseless social media chatter,” indicating that any actual protests would be met with a determined response from security personnel. He emphasized the importance of unity within the leadership, pledging continued support for President Mnangagwa and collaboration towards the 2030 development agenda.
The ongoing division within the ruling Zanu PF party over the 2030 agenda has become more pronounced. A faction supporting Mnangagwa advocates for postponing the 2028 elections to extend his rule to 2030, while another faction, loyal to Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, insists on adhering to constitutional term limits.
Despite Mnangagwa’s claims of being a constitutionalist, he has not overtly criticized those advocating for his extended presidency. The ZNLWVA opposes the notion of a third term for Mnangagwa and is siding with war veteran Blessed Geza, who has been vocal about the agenda. Geza is currently evading arrest after police initiated a manhunt for him on charges including inciting violence and defying presidential authority.
The statements from Minister Lovemore Matuke indicate a decisive stance against any proposed protests led by war veterans against President Mnangagwa. Amidst internal divisions within the Zanu PF party regarding the 2030 agenda, tensions are escalating, especially with the polarizing figures such as Blessed Geza emerging as prominent critics. The government’s readiness to confront dissent underscores the fragile political environment in Zimbabwe as it navigates allegations of corruption and calls for accountability.
Original Source: allafrica.com
