Zanu PF youths reaffirm their support for President Mnangagwa amid rising tensions with Deputy Chiwenga and protests planned by war veterans. Deputy Secretary John Paradza asserted their dedication to prevent demonstrations, while war veterans prepare for a protest against corruption and economic issues. Internal party dynamics reveal significant factional disputes leading up to the 2027 congress.
The Zanu PF youth faction has expressed unwavering support for President Emmerson Mnangagwa amidst ongoing tensions with his deputy, Constantino Chiwenga. During the launch of Mnangagwa’s Youth Fund in Harare, John Paradza, the Deputy Secretary for Youth Affairs, affirmed the group’s commitment to counter protests initiated by disgruntled war veterans.
This situation echoes events from 2017 when youths like Kudzai Chipanga publicly supported then-President Robert Mugabe in internal conflicts, leading to significant public apologies after his ousting. The recent demonstration kickoff featured chants advocating that Mnangagwa remain in power until 2030, despite constitutional provisions discouraging such actions.
War veterans, led by Blessed Geza, have announced a protest slated for March 31 to address grievances regarding alleged corruption and the ailing economy, urging citizens to join. Geza has been particularly vocal against Mnangagwa and implicated associates, promoting Chiwenga as a preferable leader.
Paradza reassured the youth at the Harare International Conference Centre that demonstrations would not occur under his leadership, stating, “What I can assure you is that as long as I still deputise Machakaire in this wing there will not be any demonstration,” receiving robust applause from attendees.
To dismiss Geza’s criticisms, Information Minister Jenfan Muswere declared the veteran’s remarks as delusional and advised Zimbabweans to disregard them. Moreover, Zanu PF’s internal conflicts have escalated, particularly with the approaching 2027 elective congress, positioning former allies Mnangagwa and Chiwenga against one another, with internal critiques of Chiwenga’s leadership emerging from prominent party figures like Christopher Mutsvangwa.
The current dynamics within Zanu PF highlight a deepening rift between factions led by President Mnangagwa and Deputy Chiwenga. Youthful supporters remain staunchly aligned with Mnangagwa, vowing to suppress protests led by discontented war veterans. As the party navigates internal struggles and prepares for the upcoming congress, the political landscape in Zimbabwe appears increasingly tumultuous, underscoring the complexities of leadership succession and party solidarity.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
