Zimbabwe’s President Appoints New Army Chief Amid Growing Protests and Calls for Resignation
Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa has appointed a new army chief just before planned protests by war veterans who want him to step down, according to BBC. The new military leader, Emmanuel Matatu, will take charge immediately.
His appointment comes after Mnangagwa suddenly removed the previous army chief, Lt. Gen. Anselem Sanyatwe, and moved him to a government position as sports, arts, and culture minister.
Why Is This a Big Deal?
According to BBC, Mnangagwa is under pressure from his own former supporters who accuse him of corruption and poor leadership. These war veterans, who once supported him, are now calling for his removal and are planning mass protests on Monday. The situation is tense, and the government is taking strict security measures to prevent violence.
Who Is the New Army Chief?
BBC reports that Gen. Matatu, believed to be 72 years old, is not a well-known figure but comes from Mnangagwa’s home province, the Midlands. Political experts told BBC that his appointment might be temporary as the government prepares for a difficult political transition. This is already the fourth time Mnangagwa has changed the army chief since becoming president less than eight years ago, showing unstable relations between the military and the ruling party.
Gen. Matatu is a veteran of Zimbabwe’s war for independence in the 1970s, when he fought against white-minority rule in what was then Rhodesia. He trained in Zambia as part of Zipra, one of the two major guerrilla forces at the time. According to BBC, Matatu is loyal to Philip Valerio Sibanda, the current head of Zimbabwe’s Defence Forces (ZDF), who is also a former Zipra fighter. This means Mnangagwa is placing his trust in military leaders he feels secure with, making it harder for his political enemies to remove him.
The Bigger Political Battle
Mnangagwa became president in 2017 after a coup removed long-time leader Robert Mugabe. Now, BBC reports that some war veterans want another political shake-up—this time calling for Vice President Constantino Chiwenga to replace Mnangagwa. Chiwenga, who used to lead the army, is seen by some as a stronger leader who could take over the government.
Adding to the tension, rumors have been spreading that Mnangagwa wants to stay in power beyond 2028, despite officially saying he will step down after his second term. BBC notes that many Zimbabweans don’t believe him, and his political enemies are using these fears to rally opposition against him.
Government Prepares for Possible Violence
With protests planned for Monday, the Zimbabwean government is taking action. According to BBC, the security minister has warned people against joining the demonstrations. At the same time, police have announced a four-day ban on carrying weapons or anything that could be used for violence in the capital.
What’s Next?
BBC reports that Zimbabwe is at a crucial moment. If the protests gain public support, Mnangagwa could face serious political trouble. However, if the military and security forces remain loyal to him, he may be able to hold onto power despite the growing pressure.
For now, all eyes are on Monday’s planned demonstrations and whether they will escalate the crisis or fade away under government pressure.
Credit: BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn0j01jgqk9o