Zimbabwe’s military chief, General Anselem Sanyatwe, has sparked a political firestorm after publicly vowing to use the army to keep the ruling Zanu-PF party in power, prompting a legal challenge and accusations of partisan interference in the country’s democratic process.
The Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) commander has come under scrutiny for his remarks at a Zanu PF rally in Nyanga North constituency.
Sanyatwe vowed that Zanu-PF will remain in power “until donkeys grow horns” and threatened to use “command voting” to ensure the party’s continued dominance.
His remarks have been seen as a threat to democratic principles and the rule of law.
Lawyer and human rights advocate, Thabani Mpofu, has written to Sanyatwe demanding that he retracts his statements, citing violations of the Constitution and the Electoral Act.
Mpofu stated, “I consider the above statements to be a violation of: Section 208(2) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe in that you as a member of a security service (the Zimbabwe National Army):
“In so uttering such statements in a public gathering, acted in a partisan manner.
“Furthered the interests of a political party Zanu-PF.
“Prejudiced the lawful interests of a legitimate political cause opposition to Zanu-PF.
“Going so far as viewing your own people, who depend on you for protection, as enemies. 2. Section 155 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe and the Electoral Act (Chapter 2:13), by threatening to rig elections in favour of Zanu-PF and against the opposition.
“The First Schedule to the Defence Act (Chapter 11:02) in that your conduct in uttering the above statements was unbecoming of an officer and a gentleman as it amounted to willful and wanton violation of the Constitution and laws of Zimbabwe.”
Mpofu further demanded that Sanyatwe “unreservedly withdraw your above statements within seven (7) days of your receipt of this letter, failing which I shall take steps to ensure that appropriate remedies under law are put in motion.”
Sanyatwe’s remarks have sparked outrage among Zanu-PF critics and observers, who accuse him of being partisan and intimidating the public.
