Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Zimeye
Published on 2024-03-23 08:26:01
Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has recently made headlines for regaining military control, following the appointment of Air Marshal John Jacob Nzvede as the new Air Force of Zimbabwe Commander. Nzvede replaced Air Marshal Elson Moyo, who was dismissed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa a couple of weeks ago.
Reports suggest that Nzvede is a close ally of Chiwenga, much like Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) commander Lieutenant-General Anselem Sanyatwe. Both Nzvede and Sanyatwe were involved in Chiwenga’s wedding committee in December of last year, indicating their strong ties to the Vice President.
Chiwenaga’s wedding to military intelligence officer Colonel Miniyothabo Baloyi was seen as a significant political event, symbolizing Chiwenga’s power ambitions and strategic moves. The wedding was attended by high-ranking officials from various branches of the military and government, showcasing Chiwenga’s influence and connections.
Among the attendees were retired Air Marshal Shebba Shumbayawonda, now ambassador to Egypt, Commissioner-General Moses Chihobvu from the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services, and Major-General Thomas Moyo from the Military Intelligence Directorate. These individuals, along with other prominent figures, played key roles in Chiwenga’s wedding and are closely linked to his political endeavors.
In addition, Chiwenga’s best man, retired Lieutenant-General Epaphras Denga Ndaitwah, holds significant influence in Chiwenga’s regional political strategies. Ndaitwah’s marriage to Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Namibia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, further strengthens Chiwenga’s connections in the region.
The recent reappointment of Sanyatwe as the head of the Zimbabwe National Army indicates Chiwenga’s efforts to solidify his control over the military. This move comes after several allies of Chiwenga were removed following the 2017 coup that brought Mnangagwa to power.
Chiwenga is believed to be engaged in a power struggle with Mnangagwa, with both vying for control and influence within the government. By fortifying his position within the army, Chiwenga is positioning himself as a potential successor to Mnangagwa.
Despite Mnangagwa’s attempts to maintain control through the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) commander General Philip Valerio Sibanda, Chiwenga’s influence continues to grow. If Chiwenga appoints his ally, retired Lieutenant-General Engelbert Rugeje, as ZDF commander, he could further solidify his grip on the military and enhance his prospects for assuming the presidency.
The intricate connection between the Zimbabwean army and politics has played a crucial role in shaping the nation’s history, from past declarations to recent coups. Chiwenga’s maneuvers within the military signal a strategic push for power and influence, setting the stage for potential changes in Zimbabwe’s political landscape.
Read the original article on The Zimbabwe Eye
