Zimbabwe's Mnangagwa Appoints New Army Chief Amid Growing Unrest

President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe has appointed Major General Emmanuel Matutu as the new army chief, following the sudden retirement of Lt Gen Anselem Sanyatwe. This change comes amid mounting pressure from war veterans calling for the president to step down due to allegations of mismanagement and corruption.

Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa has named a new army chief as tensions rise ahead of planned protests set to take place on Monday. Major General Emmanuel Matutu has taken the reins with immediate effect as the country braces for unrest sparked by a faction of war veterans urging the president to resign.

Mnangagwa's choice for this pivotal position comes on the heels of a tumultuous week after he unexpectedly retired Lt Gen Anselem Sanyatwe, who previously held the post, appointing him as minister of sports, arts, and culture instead. The president, known by his moniker "The Crocodile," has faced increasing dissatisfaction from both the public and former supporters, who have voiced their concerns over rampant corruption and mismanagement under his administration.

Since ascending to the presidency in 2017 after a coup that removed long-time leader Robert Mugabe, Mnangagwa has managed to hold on to power through a second term that is set to conclude in 2028. However, speculation about his intentions to extend his rule has fueled unrest among party members and the general populace alike.

Despite Mnangagwa's recent claims that he would step down before the end of his term, doubts linger amid the Zanu-PF party’s internal strife and growing public disillusionment. Additionally, the security minister has issued warnings against participation in the upcoming protests while police have enacted a four-day ban on weapons in the capital to pre-empt potential violence. As the situation develops, many observers are left wondering about the stability of the current regime and the prospects for Zimbabwe’s future.