‘Zimbabwe deserves better: resign, Chiwenga’ — open letter sparks political storm

A strongly worded open letter by Zambezia Economic Movement (ZEM) chairman Devine Mafa calling on Vice President Constantino Chiwenga to resign has ignited fierce political debate over Zimbabwe’s succession politics and constitutional future.


In the letter released on Monday, Mafa accused Chiwenga of being the central force behind ongoing constitutional manoeuvres allegedly aimed at extending President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s rule beyond 2028.

“The time for subtlety is over,” Mafa wrote. “Your continued tenure is treason, and it’s turning Zimbabwe into a barracks.”

Mafa argued that Chiwenga’s continued presence in government has fuelled fears of a military‑backed succession struggle within Zanu PF, creating justification for what critics have termed the CAB3 constitutional amendment efforts.

According to the letter, Chiwenga allegedly declined to assume the presidency during the 2017 military intervention due to pressure from regional leaders, opting instead to become vice president with expectations of eventually succeeding Mnangagwa. Mafa claimed the political landscape has since shifted.

“You entered government expecting succession. Mnangagwa entered government planning permanence,” the letter reads.

Mafa further alleged that the President has consolidated power through loyalists in state and party structures, leaving Chiwenga politically isolated and without a viable strategy.

“The people of Zimbabwe deserve a clear message: you will not seek the presidency. Resign, and remove the rationale for CAB3,” he wrote.

The letter quickly generated heated reactions on social media, with supporters and critics sharply divided. Some opposition‑aligned commentators described it as a bold challenge to military influence in politics, while others dismissed it as political grandstanding aimed at exploiting divisions within the ruling elite.

A ZEM supporter posting on X said: “It’s time for Chiwenga to go and let democracy prevail.”

Political analysts say the letter reflects growing tensions around Zimbabwe’s unresolved succession question and concerns over constitutional amendments that could reshape the country’s political future ahead of the 2028 elections.

The Office of the Vice President had not responded to the allegations by the time of publication.

Meanwhile, the Mthwakazi Liberation Front (MLF) has joined other opposition voices condemning the Zanu PF‑initiated Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill, describing it as a “poison” that will worsen the country’s already fragile state.

MLF spokesperson Chrispen Nyoni criticised the proposed amendment, saying it seeks to extend President Mnangagwa’s stay in power without a fresh mandate from the people. He accused Zanu PF officials backing the Bill of manipulating constitutional processes for political survival and personal gain.

Nyoni said the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Bill was “one drop of poison” proposed by “Zanu PF’s criminals around Mnangagwa” to keep him in power for an extended period.

He argued that good leaders leave office when their time ends, while “bad leaders” attempt to remain in power by altering constitutional provisions. Nyoni further alleged that the push for CAB3 is being driven by individuals seeking to protect political and economic interests tied to the current administration.

“The major benefit is the continuation of the looting of the country’s resources for their selfish ends,” he said.