Opposition calls for GNU, slams Zanu PF’s “leadership recycling”

By Staff Reporter

Opposition leader Herbert Chamuka has criticised what he has described as “leadership recycling” within the ruling Zanu PF party and is pushing for a Government of National Unity (GNU).

There are clear divisions within Zanu PF, with one faction pushing for the extension of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term and another opposed to the move, backing Vice President Constantino Chiwenga to take over.

War veteran Blessed Geza, who is calling for Mngangagwa’s ouster and Chiwenga’s elevation to presidency, has been pushing for protests and stay-aways against the Zanu PF leader, whom he accuses of overseeing corruption, nepotism, and tribalism, among other issues.

Chamuka, leader of the People’s Unity Party (PUP), has been opposed to Geza’s calls for demonstrations and national shutdowns, said the reason is that if Mnangagwa steps down, he will only be replaced by another Zanu PF member, and there will not be much change.

“I do not support President Mnangagwa or any Zanu PF leader.

“What I am against is the plan by certain Zanu PF factions to use protests to remove Mnangagwa and replace him with another Zanu PF person.

“That does not change anything. Citizens are tired of the same people rotating power among themselves.”

Chamuka said that Zimbabwe needs a fresh start, and that could only happen through a Government of National Unity (GNU), not through Zanu PF’s internal battles.

He added: “Replacing one Zanu PF leader with another won’t help the people.

“We need an inclusive government that reflects the will of all Zimbabweans. That is why we are calling for a peaceful, nationwide demonstration to push for a GNU.”

He said plans were underway for a demonstration that would send a strong but non-violent message to the government.

“This will not be a violent protest.

“We want to show the government that people are serious and tired of political games. We want change through unity, not through chaos.”