Initially dismissed as mere rumour, reports now suggest that there may be an impeachment motion against President Emmerson Mnangagwa, echoing events from 2017 when military intervention forced the resignation of the late President Robert Mugabe. The unexpected suspension of parliamentary activities has prompted many to question whether Zimbabwe is on the brink of another political crisis.
On the day of the adjournment, a motion to impeach Mnangagwa was said to be on the parliamentary agenda. Yet, just before the session was due to begin, Parliament was abruptly closed. The sudden decision has drawn attention, with many wondering whether this signals a deeper crisis within Zimbabwe's ruling party, Zanu PF.
Tendai Ruben Mbofana, a social justice advocate and writer in Zimbabwe, shared insight into the unfolding situation.
"It's a pleasure to be here," said Mbofana. "From what I've gathered, it appears there were indeed plans to present an impeachment motion against Mnangagwa. However, Parliament was unexpectedly adjourned before this could be discussed."
When asked whether any explanations had been provided for the sudden adjournment, Mbofana was quick to express his doubts. "No clear reasons have been given, and this is highly unusual. We’ve heard reports that both the Speaker of Parliament and the President of the Senate have left the country on business. But is that a valid reason to suspend Parliament for an entire month? It seems odd and raises suspicions," he noted.
Mbofana continued, “In Zimbabwe's history, it’s unprecedented for both Houses of Parliament to be effectively shut down because the speakers are absent. This unusual development leads me to believe that the impeachment motion may be at the heart of the decision to adjourn.”
Recent weeks have seen rising discontent within Zanu PF, the ruling party, with murmurs of dissatisfaction from various factions. While some of these disgruntled members may be pushing for Vice President Constantino Chiwenga to take power, there are also broader concerns about Mnangagwa’s leadership and his attempts to extend his presidency beyond the constitutional limit set for 2028.
Mbofana explained, “The push to extend Mnangagwa’s term is a significant issue. There are factions within Zanu PF trying to amend the Constitution to allow him to stay in office longer, despite the constitutional limits. This has caused a great deal of tension within the party.”
--ChannelAfrica--
