HARARE — President Emmerson Mnangagwa has appointed Major General Emmanuel Matatu as the new commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, replacing Lieutenant General Anselem Sanyatwe, who was abruptly removed Tuesday ahead of planned protests on March 31.
Matatu, 72, has more than two decades of service as a brigadier general. He was promoted to major general just two years ago, despite being past the retirement age. Analysts suggest his appointment may be a temporary measure, with some describing it as “warming the chair.”
The leadership change comes at a politically sensitive time, as tensions rise over the upcoming demonstrations and internal divisions within the ruling Zanu PF party.
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