BREAKING: Mnangagwa Weighs State of Emergency Amidst Rising Political Tensions
Harare, Zimbabwe – President Emmerson Mnangagwa is reportedly considering imposing a state of emergency in response to mounting political unrest, as security sources indicate that a nationwide protest demanding his removal is set for March 31. The demonstrations, allegedly spearheaded by military-backed war veterans led by Blessed Geza, have intensified tensions within the ruling party and the security forces.
The country has already witnessed a series of arson attacks targeting vehicles outside the businesses of Mnangagwa’s key allies in Harare and its outskirts—an apparent warning sign of the turmoil ahead. War veterans accuse these business figures of financing Mnangagwa’s ambitious bid to extend his rule beyond the constitutional two-term limit to 2030.
Succession Battle Intensifies
Mnangagwa finds himself entangled in a bitter power struggle with his deputy, Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga, amid growing factionalism within ZANU-PF. The President’s latest moves suggest a determined effort to secure his grip on power, even at the expense of key military figures.
In what observers describe as a bold coup-proofing strategy, Mnangagwa recently dismissed Zimbabwe National Army Commander Lieutenant-General Anselem Sanyatwe, reassigning him to the largely ceremonial role of Minister of Sports. He has since appointed Major-General Emmanuel Matatu, a trusted ally from his home province of Midlands, to replace Sanyatwe—an indication of his attempt to consolidate control within the armed forces.
Heavy Security Presence as Military Remains Silent
Ahead of the planned protests, police units have been deployed nationwide in a bid to preempt and suppress demonstrations. Meanwhile, the military has remained conspicuously silent, issuing only a public warning against civilians wearing army regalia—a move that analysts interpret as an indication of internal divisions within the security establishment.
Implications of a State of Emergency
Should Mnangagwa declare a state of emergency, it would grant his government sweeping powers, including the suspension of constitutional rights, heightened police and military crackdowns, and possible curfews restricting movement. Governments often implement such measures during periods of civil unrest, political instability, or perceived threats to national security.
If enforced, a curfew could be imposed to restrict public movement during specific hours, potentially curtailing the ability of protesters to organize mass demonstrations. Critics argue that such an approach would serve as a political tool to suppress opposition voices rather than a genuine effort to maintain law and order.
As Zimbabwe braces for the coming weeks, the fate of Mnangagwa’s presidency appears increasingly uncertain, with both political allies and security forces deeply divided over the country’s trajectory. The looming March 31 demonstrations could prove to be a turning point in the nation’s political landscape.
