Zimbabwe’s politics has taken a major turn. Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga, with strong backing from the military, has firmly stopped President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s push for a third term. This is a clear sign that the battle for power inside Zanu PF has reached a new level, and the future of the country’s leadership is now more uncertain than ever.
Mnangagwa, who grabbed power in a 2017 coup, seemed unbeatable for years. He had side-lined the army generals who brought him to power and instead leaned heavily on the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) and its shady arm, Forever Associates Zimbabwe (FAZ), during the 2023 elections. Many believed this was his way of dodging possible sabotage from within his own camp. But that strategy has now backfired. The military is fighting back—and Chiwenga is leading the charge.
The signs were already there. After the 2023 elections, which were widely criticised for being flawed and illegal, whispers began circulating that Mnangagwa wanted to run again in 2028, defying the constitution’s two-term limit. Zanu PF youth groups were mobilised to chant “2030 ED”, echoing the same tricks used in 2023. Mnangagwa himself gave speeches hinting he would still be in charge “by 2030.”
But Chiwenga and his military allies were not fooled. They had waited patiently, and now they are striking. One of the biggest signs was the appointment of Lieutenant-General Anselem Sanyatwe as the new army chief. Sanyatwe is a known ally of Chiwenga, and his promotion shows that the Vice-President is now regaining full control of the military. Sanyatwe was previously sent into diplomatic exile by Mnangagwa, but his return marks a serious shift in power dynamics.
Chiwenga’s presidential dreams are no longer a secret either. During his flashy wedding in December last year, the event felt more like a campaign rally than a private ceremony. His message was clear: he wants to lead Zimbabwe after Mnangagwa. And now, it seems he’s in a strong position to make that happen.
Mnangagwa, feeling the heat, has changed his tune. In a recent interview with “Brick by Brick” magazine, he said he has no plans to run again. He now claims to be a “defender of the constitution,” even though his rise to power and re-election were full of illegalities and manipulation. “There is not an iota of evidence where Zanu PF or I, as President, have ever expressed the violation of our constitution,” he said. But few people believe him. The damage has already been done.
The law is also not on Mnangagwa’s side. Even if he tried to change the constitution, section 328(7) blocks him. It clearly says any term limit change does not apply to the current President. That means even if Zanu PF’s two-thirds majority pushed for it, the changes wouldn’t help Mnangagwa. That door is firmly closed.
This battle between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga is not just about power—it’s about the future of Zimbabwe. It exposes deep cracks inside Zanu PF. The party that claims to be united is actually fighting over who gets to rule next. The army wants its place back in the centre of power, while Mnangagwa’s team is losing control.
Chiwenga’s rise could mark the beginning of a new chapter. But whether that chapter brings real change or just another strongman at the top remains to be seen. For now, what is clear is that Mnangagwa’s dream of ruling beyond 2028 is over. The military, once his ally, has now become his biggest obstacle.
The people of Zimbabwe are watching closely. They’ve seen power change hands in the dark before—through coups, betrayals, and backroom deals. They deserve a future shaped by the people, not just the military or CIO. As the power games continue, the real question is whether the next leader will finally break the cycle—or keep it going.