Zanu PF youths have pledged their support for President Emmerson Mnangagwa in an internal power struggle with deputy Constantino Chiwenga. Deputy Secretary Paradza declared efforts to thwart upcoming protests by war veterans against Mnangagwa’s leadership. The ongoing factional disputes within Zanu PF threaten party unity as the 2027 congress approaches, with dissenting figures facing expulsion.
In a contemporary reflection of events from 2017, Zanu PF youth have rallied in support of President Emmerson Mnangagwa amid an internal power struggle with his deputy, Constantino Chiwenga. During the inaugural launch of Mnangagwa’s Youth Fund in Harare, Deputy Secretary for Youth Affairs John Paradza expressed the youth’s commitment to thwart any planned protests by disgruntled war veterans in opposition to Mnangagwa’s governance.
The environment recalls 2017 when youth leaders were compelled to apologize for their allegiance to then-President Robert Mugabe amid factional disputes. At the launch, participants fervently chanted “2030 ndeya ED,” advocating for Mnangagwa remaining in power until 2030, despite constitutional implications. This echoes a history of public apologies, including broadcasts following military interventions.
War veterans, led by Blessed Geza, have scheduled a protest for March 31 against perceived corruption among Mnangagwa’s associates and the worsening economic conditions. Geza has condemned Mnangagwa and his associates, advocating for Chiwenga as a viable leadership alternative for Zimbabwe’s crises.
In response to the anticipated protests, Paradza assured attendees at the Harare International Conference Centre that he would work to prevent demonstrations as long as he holds his position. He reassured the youth, saying, “We want you to be at peace” and emphasized their role in safeguarding the President’s legacy and the party’s integrity.
Geza, who has publicly demanded Mnangagwa’s resignation, received criticisms from Information Minister Jenfan Muswere, who deemed him “delusional” and asserted that Zanu PF is dismissing his claims. Consequently, Geza was swiftly expelled from the party after making controversial statements.
Factional disputes within Zanu PF intensify as the party gears up for its 2027 electoral congress, revealing a rift between former allies Mnangagwa and Chiwenga. The latter, once believed to be the chosen successor following the 2017 coup, appears sidelined as internal dissension builds, even drawing public ire from party spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa, who has disparaged Chiwenga’s electability and capability.
Zanu PF youths have publicly demonstrated their support for President Mnangagwa, aiming to suppress protests from war veterans amid a backdrop of internal party conflict. While the youth assert their loyalty, dissent from war veterans and criticisms of Mnangagwa’s administration suggest ongoing factional strife. As the party heads towards its 2027 congress, the rivalry between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga intensifies, complicating the political landscape. The consequences of these developments remain to be seen as Zimbabwe faces significant governance challenges.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
