Power Play in Zimbabwe: Mnangagwa Tightens Grip Amid Alleged Coup Fears

Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa has dismissed senior military officers to consolidate his power amid coup fears from former allies. Mnangagwa's actions come as internal dissent within ZANU-PF escalates, with independence war veterans demanding his resignation. The reassignments aim at securing loyalty from security forces as political tensions rise.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Updated: 26-03-2025 19:39 IST | Created: 26-03-2025 19:39 IST
Power Play in Zimbabwe: Mnangagwa Tightens Grip Amid Alleged Coup Fears
Mnangagwa

In a bold maneuver to assert control, Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa has removed several top military officials, including General Anselem Sanyatwe, amid rising tensions within the ruling ZANU-PF party. Analysts suggest the reshuffles are preemptive measures against potential power threats from former allies.

The recent shake-up comes as ZANU-PF faces internal friction, with dissenting war veterans calling for nationwide protests to demand Mnangagwa's resignation. They accuse him of exacerbating Zimbabwe's economic woes and intending to extend his rule beyond the mandatory term limits.

Mnangagwa, dismissing these allegations, has been restructuring key security positions to fortify his leadership. The move also aims to neutralize any opposition from figures like Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, indicating the high-stakes nature of Zimbabwe's political landscape.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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