Cracks have emerged among retired army commanders after Retired Major-General Gibson Mashingaidze publicly distanced himself and other retired military officers from a letter written to parliament by retired Air Vice-Marshal Henry Muchena criticising the constitutional amendments which seek to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s and change the political, electoral and governance systems through Constitutional Amendment Bill (No.3).
Mashingaidze said Muchena's claims to speak for a collective group of retired generals were "unfortunate" and "regrettable," asserting he had not consulted widely and was speaking only in a personal capacity.
Writing to the Clerk of Parliament
as National Chair of the Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Board, Mashingaidze said the "generality" of retired generals and senior civil servants — particularly those who support Zanu PF — fully support the proposed changes.
He argued the bill is necessary to correct "unpalatable" provisions negotiated during the
Government of National Unity era and aligns with resolutions adopted at Zanu PF conferences in 2024 (Bulawayo) and 2025 (Mutare).
Mashingaidze described Mnangagwa as a "constitutionalist" and maintained that the amendment process is being conducted lawfully through Parliament, including scheduled public outreach programmes.
Muchena authored a letter on behalf of unnamed retired commanders, warning that the amendments — which extend Mnangagwa’s term and lengthen the presidential term from — might betray the ideals of the liberation struggle.
Muchena demanded a national referendum on the changes, while Mashingaidze’s faction maintains that parliamentary procedures are sufficient as no referendum is required.
@kertelRabbitry@AllanSseky Absolutely funny, I have been laughing at every video it was recorded on, though I have no idea about the meaning.
V18 has got an amazing song.
The Meaning, please.