At a time when silence would be easier, Air Marshal (Retired) Henry Muchena has chosen principle over comfort and he is right to do so.
The attacks directed at retired generals by sections within ZANU PF and its sympathisers are not only misplaced but deeply insulting.
These men and women, who played a role in shaping the nation’s history, are now being vilified simply for exercising a right guaranteed to every citizen: the right to speak out.
Muchena’s intervention is necessary. As a citizen of Zimbabwe, he carries the same constitutional entitlement as any Zimbabwean to question leadership and raise alarm where governance appears to be failing.
To dismiss his voice and those he represents is to undermine the very democratic principles the nation claims to uphold.
What distinguishes Muchena’s stance is that it resonates with the growing frustration among ordinary Zimbabweans. He is not speaking in isolation, rather, he is echoing the concerns of a population burdened by economic hardship and uncertain about the country’s direction.
In this sense, he is not merely defending generals he is standing with the people.
It is increasingly evident that the message, though carefully delivered, is clear. There is a call for accountability at the highest level.
Many interpret this as a direct appeal to President Emmerson Mnangagwa to reflect on his leadership and if necessary, to do the honourable thing in the national interest even if that means stepping aside.
Zimbabwe has been here before. The final years of Robert Mugabe were marked by growing public discontent that was ignored until it could no longer be contained. Today, there is a clear determination among citizens not to repeat that history.
Those who seek to insult or silence Muchena and his colleagues risk misreading the moment. This is not about bitterness or personal grievance, as some have suggested. It is about principle, accountability, and the future of a nation.
Air Marshal Muchena is right not because he is a former military leader, but because he has chosen to align himself with truth as many Zimbabweans see it. In times like these, such voices should not be attacked; they should be heard.
Engineer Jacob Kudzayi Mutisi
