In a new twist to President Robert Mugabe's unpredictable succession battle, a group of generals in the army disgruntled by Zanu PF's failure to resolve the issue are reportedly pushing for Zimbabwe Defense Force Commander Constantine Chiwenga to take over from the ageing leader battling with ill-health. Impeccable sources told the Zimbabwe Independent that a coterie of commanders working with Zanu PF politicians, want Chiwenga to retire from the army and enter the fray to succeed Mugabe.
Chiwenga who is referred to within military circles as "Zim 2" implying that he is effectively number two to Mugabe. He is said to be open to the idea of an active role in politics after quitting the army. Chiwenga has been studying in recent years and this has been seen as part of his preparation for a political career after his quitting the military. He is studying for a Master of Arts degree in International Relations at the University of Zimbabwe.
Mugabe in order to maintain control of both the party and the government, has been appointing former military personnel to run the party. Mugabe has also previously appointed retired soldiers to boards and top mangement posts. The army has proved loyal to Mugabe and effective in the political assignments he gave them. It has helped ensure Mugabe's continued rule, mainly during the presidental elections in 2002 and 2008. Mugabe views military personnel as loyal to him and this has been shown through statements from top army and security chiefs, who have vowed not to support anyone without liberation war credentials.
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