Money divides war vets over 2030 battle?

President Emmerson Mnangagwa's alleged ambitions to extend his tenure beyond the 2028 constitutional limit have ignited fierce political turmoil within Zanu-PF and heightened tensions across Zimbabwe.

Mnangagwa recently disbursed US$1.5 million to the Presidential War Veterans Fund, a move widely seen as an attempt to secure the loyalty and political support of liberation war veterans. Energized by the funding, Zanu-PF Secretary for War Veterans Douglas Mahiya has intensified his campaign to rally support for extending Mnangagwa's rule to 2030—a move critics label as a thinly veiled bid for a third term.

However, the push for an extended presidency has met strong resistance from factions within Zanu-PF and disgruntled war veterans, some of whom are calling for Mnangagwa to step down. Leading the charge is Blessed Geza, a former Zanu-PF central committee member, who has warned of a “final push” to remove Mnangagwa if he refuses to relinquish power.

Geza's outspokenness has made him a target of law enforcement. Police announced they are pursuing him on four charges, including allegedly undermining the authority of the president, insulting Mnangagwa, and car theft. Zanu-PF officials are reportedly pushing for additional charges, including murder, accusing Geza of killing an individual in a previous incident.

Mnangagwa has publicly denied any intentions of extending his rule, but his actions tell a different story. Political allies and supporters have openly campaigned for his third term, allegedly with his backing. Reports indicate Mnangagwa has been funding and hosting supporters to advance the controversial agenda, further escalating tensions within the ruling party.

The internal strife has placed Mnangagwa on a collision course with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, who is seen as a potential successor and has his own ambitions for the presidency. The growing rivalry between the two leaders is fueling factional battles within Zanu-PF, with deadly consequences that threaten to destabilize the party and the nation.

Observers warn that the unfolding power struggle could have dire consequences for Zimbabwe's political stability. The infighting has already unleashed widespread uncertainty, with war veterans, a historically influential group, deeply divided over Mnangagwa's leadership and the country's direction.

As the push for a third term gains momentum, the rift within Zanu-PF is widening, with no clear resolution in sight. The situation has raised fears of escalating violence and further political instability, with the potential to upend Zimbabwe's already fragile governance landscape.