ZIMBABWE’S POWER STRUGGLE: CHIWENGA BLOCKS MNANGAGWA’S THIRD TERM BID

In a significant political shift in Zimbabwe, Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga, backed by the military, has stymied President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s ambitions for a third term. This revelation has ushered in a new era of political dynamics in the country, highlighting a deep-seated rift within the ruling elite.

President Mnangagwa, who came to power following a coup in 2017, initially appeared to have solidified his grip on power by sidelining the military in favor of the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) and its affiliate, Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ), during last year’s general elections. This strategic move was ostensibly aimed at circumventing potential internal sabotage. However, his reliance on the CIO and FAZ has ultimately faltered, as military commanders had consistently hinted at halting Mnangagwa’s maneuverings post-election.

The military’s discontent became unmistakable when Chiwenga, wielding significant influence within the armed forces, orchestrated key military appointments. Notably, Lieutenant-General Anselem Sanyatwe, a close ally of Chiwenga and previously sidelined by Mnangagwa, was appointed as the commander of the Zimbabwe National Army. This move was seen as a clear signal of Chiwenga’s rising power and his intention to succeed Mnangagwa.

Chiwenga’s political ambitions were more openly declared during his high-profile wedding to Miniyothabo Baloyi in December, where his presidential aspirations were more apparent than ever. Meanwhile, Mnangagwa’s attempts to secure a third term continued subtly. He leveraged Zanu PF youths to champion his extended stay in power, asserting that he would still be a key political figure by 2030, mirroring the tactics used for his re-election bid in 2023.

Despite these efforts, the campaign for a third term was overt, and Mnangagwa did not publicly renounce it until it became clear that such a move would be politically detrimental. Recognizing the precariousness of his position, Mnangagwa has now pivoted, presenting himself as a guardian of the constitution and the rule of law. This change in stance comes despite the constitutional controversies and illegalities that marred his re-election.

In an exclusive interview with “Brick by Brick” magazine, Mnangagwa denied any intentions of running for a third term, emphasizing Zimbabwe’s commitment to constitutional democracy. “There is not an iota of evidence where Zanu PF or I, as President, have ever expressed the violation of our constitution,” Mnangagwa asserted, downplaying the political conjecture surrounding his tenure.

The Zimbabwean constitution currently sets a two-term limit for the presidency, with amendments to this rule requiring a two-thirds parliamentary majority. Although Zanu PF technically holds this majority, any amendment aimed at extending term limits would not benefit Mnangagwa due to section 328(7) of the constitution. This clause ensures that no incumbent benefits from changes to term-limit provisions, making such an amendment applicable only to future presidents.

The unfolding political drama in Zimbabwe reflects a broader struggle for power within the ruling party, where allegiances are shifting, and future leadership remains uncertain. As Mnangagwa navigates these turbulent waters, Chiwenga’s ascendancy signals a potential shift in Zimbabwe’s political landscape, one that could redefine the nation’s governance and its democratic foundations.