Key Points
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War veterans divided over ED2030 succession agenda.
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Parerenyatwa targeted for rejecting Mnangagwa tenure extension.
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Police deny involvement despite repeated attacks on veterans’ leaders.
Factional battles within Zimbabwe’s ruling Zanu PF have intensified, with the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) caught in the crossfire.
Reports suggest that individuals posing as state security agents have targeted outspoken veterans resisting the “ED2030” campaign, which seeks to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s rule beyond 2028.
Mnangagwa has repeatedly stated that he will retire at the end of his second term in line with the Constitution.
However, some party members continue to push for constitutional changes to extend his stay in office, a move that has divided both the party and the war veterans.
At a recent ZNLWVA meeting in Victoria Falls, the association resolved not to back the succession fights. Instead, leaders emphasized returning focus to veterans’ welfare, distancing themselves from internal Zanu PF factional wars.
Parerenyatwa accused of defying ED2030 push
ZNLWVA national secretary-general Sam Parerenyatwa has become a key target after refusing to chant the “ED2030” slogan at a party rally in Bindura.
His farm in Centenary and mining venture in Guruve have allegedly faced multiple attacks by groups claiming to act under orders from high offices.
According to sources, mining equipment was vandalized and farming machinery destroyed in repeated assaults.
In July, at least 13 men reportedly attacked his Guruve mine, forcing workers to seek refuge at the local police station, where officers allegedly refused to intervene.
Parerenyatwa has declined public comment, but sources say he has endured three separate attacks this year.
Critics warn that his position could influence other veterans to resist the succession campaign, intensifying tensions ahead of the party’s annual conference.
Police deny complicity as tensions escalate
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi dismissed claims that state agents were involved, insisting no official link had been established. He confirmed, however, that Parerenyatwa had reported cases of trespassing at his farm.
Nyathi also said villagers had accused Parerenyatwa’s late associate, Alexander Chiwara, of illegal mining, leading to his arrest.
Chiwara later died in custody from health complications, fueling speculation of police mistreatment, which authorities deny.
Despite police denials, fears remain high among veterans who see the targeting of Parerenyatwa as part of a wider purge of dissenters.
With unemployment and economic hardship mounting, observers warn that factional fights could weaken Zanu PF’s internal unity ahead of crucial political milestones.
