Zanu-PF's succession battle escalates as presser is disrupted

Zanu-PF succession battle escalates as press conference gets disrupted

A war veterans’ press conference disruption exposed a power struggle within Zanu-PF, fueling Zimbabwe’s succession battle.

Zimbabwe's Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Image via X@cdesetfree

A press conference by the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) in Bulawayo turned chaotic on Monday when a group calling itself Youth Connect stormed the venue, intensifying a succession battle within the ruling Zanu-PF party.

Chaos at Press Conference Amid Succession Battle

According to Zimbabwe Mail, the event, which was to be addressed by ZNLWVA chairman Andreas Ethan Mathibela, was expected to clarify the war veterans’ stance on the party’s succession battle.

“We are not here to provoke anyone, but we are here for our own meeting. We have our own business to attend to, just like you,” said the man leading the group.

ZNLWVA chairman Ethan Mathibela dismissed the claim. He stated that the war veterans had properly informed the police and obtained clearance for the event.

“We have clearance from the police headquarters. I personally delivered the letter, which was accepted by the Commissioner General. Now, I am seeing these guys here,” Mathibela said.

The disruption laid bare the deepening divide between President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his deputy, Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga. Rival factions are maneuvering for control ahead of the 2028 elections.

Shifting Allegiances Within Zanu-PF

Zimbabwe Mail reports that sources within Zanu-PF have shared new information. The war veterans, who were instrumental in Mnangagwa’s rise to power in 2017, have shifted their support. They are now backing Chiwenga, a retired army general who played a key role in the coup that ousted former President Robert Mugabe.

On the other hand, Mnangagwa’s camp has reportedly been mobilising youth groups to counter opposition within the party. This move aims to undermine Chiwenga’s growing influence. The violent disruption of the press conference by Youth Connect is believed to be part of this broader strategy.

The Struggles of War Veterans Amid Succession Battle

The disruption comes at a time when war veterans, including figures like Blessed Geza, have spoken out about their mistreatment. They have also highlighted their economic hardships. Geza, a war veteran who has openly criticised the ruling establishment, has been at the forefront of demanding better welfare for former fighters. His outspokenness has made him a target of political intimidation, underscoring the broader struggles of Zimbabwe’s war veterans.

The Succession Battle for 2028 and Beyond

At the heart of the battle is Mnangagwa’s future beyond 2028. The constitution limits the presidency to two terms. However, some of Mnangagwa’s allies are pushing for an extension to 2030, a move that has faced resistance from Chiwenga and his military-backed faction. Chiwenga’s camp is reportedly positioning itself to block any constitutional amendments that would extend Mnangagwa’s rule, setting the stage for an internal showdown within Zanu-PF.