President Emmerson Mnangagwa has appointed Emmanuel Matutu as Zimbabwe’s new army commander, days after unexpectedly moving former army chief Anselem Sanyatwe to the less influential role of sports minister.
The announcement was made through a statement by Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Martin Rushwaya on Thursday night, confirming Matutu’s immediate assumption of the role.
Prior to his latest appointment, Matatu was Chief of Staff (Administration) at the Zimbabwe National Army headquarters in Harare.
The reshuffle has added to speculation about internal divisions within the ruling ZANU-PF party as Mnangagwa faces mounting pressure from former allies.
Earlier this week, Sanyatwe’s abrupt removal from his position as army chief raised eyebrows, with critics questioning the timing and motives behind the move.
His reassignment to the Ministry of Sports, Arts and Culture is widely seen as a demotion, signalling potential rifts within the government’s power structure.
The appointment comes ahead of planned protests by war veterans demanding Mnangagwa’s resignation over allegations of corruption and mismanagement.
The political landscape remains tense as Zimbabwe braces for Monday’s protests, organised by a group of war veterans who were once staunch supporters of Mnangagwa.
JN/APA