Zimbabwe's president, Emmerson Mnangagwa, is facing unprecedented challenges to his authority as members of his own party call for mass protests aimed at unseating him. This turmoil comes amid a prolonged economic crisis and ongoing allegations of corruption.
In a recent address to the ruling ZANU-PF party, Mnangagwa denounced calls for his resignation as a "treasonous" conspiracy orchestrated by individuals he labeled as "chameleon-like characters." The political instability has heightened tensions in a nation already struggling with severe economic hardships.
Zimbabwe has endured hyperinflation for two decades, leading to extreme poverty and a workforce largely engaged in informal employment, with the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce estimating that 80 percent of jobs lack security and adequate pay.
Human rights abuses, political repression, and allegations of manipulated elections have damaged Zimbabwe's reputation internationally, resulting in sanctions from the United States against key figures in the government, including Mnangagwa.
Despite promising reforms after his rise to power in a 2017 coup that ousted long-time leader Robert Mugabe, Mnangagwa has not successfully leveraged the nation's mineral wealth to stimulate economic growth. Recent political maneuvers include the dismissal of key security officials, seen as attempts to fortify his position against potential challenges.
Zimbabweans have been leaving the country in large numbers for years, creating tensions with neighboring nations that are dealing with the influx of migrants. Activists within the ZANU-PF party express deep dissatisfaction with the current leadership, with some stating that the situation has deteriorated to a point where comparisons to Mugabe's era are common.
Allegations have arisen that Mnangagwa aims to extend his presidency beyond his current term, contradicting earlier commitments to relinquish power. Earlier this year, discussions within the ruling party suggested altering the Constitution to allow him to run for a third term in the 2028 elections.
Opposition within the ZANU-PF has gained traction, spearheaded by former party member Blessed Geza, who has faced accusations of treason for his criticisms of Mnangagwa. Despite internal challenges, government representatives have downplayed the significance of factional disputes within the party.
As protests are anticipated, police presence has been notably increased in Harare, with law enforcement actively searching for potential weapons among motorists in an effort to preempt any violence. The tension has left many citizens torn between participating in protests and the necessity of attending to daily responsibilities.
Political experts suggest that the current infighting within ZANU-PF is more about power dynamics than addressing the pressing issues faced by ordinary Zimbabweans. Observers note parallels to the era of Mugabe, indicating a struggle within the ruling party to manage its leadership transition.