Zimbabwe is experiencing major political unrest as President Emmerson Mnangagwa faces mounting pressure to resign. An internal split within the ruling ZANU-PF party, coupled with public protests, has intensified the crisis. President Mnangagwa’s attempts to extend his presidency beyond the constitutionally mandated limit of 2028 have further fueled dissent.
Internal Divisions within ZANU-PF
The ZANU-PF party, in power since 1980, is currently divided into two main factions. One faction supports extending Mnangagwa’s rule to 2030, while the other backs Vice President Constantino Chiwenga as his successor. In December 2024, the party adopted a motion to prolong Mnangagwa’s term, sparking controversy and debate nationwide. Critics argue that such an extension violates Zimbabwe’s constitution, which limits presidents to two terms. Mnangagwa, who came to power in 2017 after Robert Mugabe’s ousting, is currently serving his second term, set to end in 2028.
Public Protests and Government Response
Dissent within ZANU-PF has spilled into the public sphere, leading to protests organized by party members and war veterans. Blessed “Bombshell” Geza, a senior party member and liberation war veteran, has been at the forefront of these demonstrations. Geza accuses Mnangagwa of corruption and nepotism, calling for his resignation. On March 31, 2025, protests were held in Harare and other cities. However, government appeals to stay away, coupled with a heavy police presence, resulted in low turnout. Businesses and schools closed as a precaution, and authorities arrested 95 protesters on charges of public violence and breaches of peace.
In response to the unrest, Mnangagwa has made significant changes to the country’s security leadership. He dismissed General Anselem Sanyatwe, commander of the presidential guard, as well as the chief of police and the head of intelligence services. Experts suggest these moves aim to consolidate power and prevent potential coups amid growing internal dissent.
The current political turmoil in Zimbabwe mirrors past events, notably the 2017 coup that led to Mugabe’s removal. President Mnangagwa’s efforts to extend his rule and the resulting factionalism within ZANU-PF have raised concerns about the country’s stability. As the situation unfolds, the future of Zimbabwe’s leadership remains uncertain, with citizens and political observers closely monitoring developments.
