Minister Lovemore Matuke warns against planned protests by war veterans aimed at President Mnangagwa, asserting the government’s readiness to respond. War veterans are protesting to demand accountability amid economic crises attributed to corrupt leadership. Political factions within Zanu PF show division over the 2030 agenda, which includes debates about election timelines and term limits. Blessed Geza, a vocal critic of Mnangagwa, faces a police manhunt for his opposing views.
In a recent announcement, Lovemore Matuke, Minister of State for National Security, issued a stark warning to groups, specifically war veterans, planning protests against President Emmerson Mnangagwa. He declared that the government is prepared to respond decisively to any demonstrations scheduled for March 20, 2023, which are aimed at addressing the economic crisis that many attribute to government mismanagement and corruption.
The Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) has informed the police of their intention to protest, emphasizing their demand for government accountability amidst growing economic concerns. Matuke, overseeing the Central Intelligence, dismissed these plans as mere “social media chatter” and reassured that security forces are on alert to manage any unrest arising from these discussions.
Speaking during the inauguration of a new clinic in Masvingo North, Matuke took a firm stance, asserting, “There are rumours that there are planned protests at the end of this month and we want to let you know there is nothing like that. It is just social media noise from people in the diaspora… we are ready and we will be waiting to deal with such.”
The political landscape within the ruling Zanu PF party shows signs of division, particularly regarding the upcoming 2030 agenda. There exists a faction aligned with Mnangagwa favoring the suspension of the 2028 elections, while another, linked to Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, advocates for adherence to constitutional term limits. Although Mnangagwa advocates for constitutional adherence, he has not publicly halted those supporting his extended tenure.
Prominent within the opposition against Mnangagwa’s potential third term is outspoken war veteran Blessed Geza, who has been vocal regarding the validity of the 2030 agenda. Following his criticism, authorities have escalated their pursuit of Geza, launching a manhunt and charging him with serious offenses including inciting violence. This situation illustrates the increasingly tense atmosphere within Zimbabwean politics as the 2030 agenda faces mounting scrutiny.
The statements made by Minister Lovemore Matuke highlight the government’s readiness to confront any protests while illustrating the deepening divisions within the Zanu PF party regarding the 2030 agenda. As economic challenges persist and dissent grows, the response from authorities could further impact the political landscape. The situation involving the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association and the threats faced by critics such as Blessed Geza exemplify the precarious state of political discourse in Zimbabwe.
Original Source: allafrica.com
