By Political Reporter-The Government has announced that President Emmerson Mnangagwa will begin his annual vacation on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, but will remain in the country.
Presidential Spokesperson George Charamba made the announcement on Monday, fueling speculation that Mnangagwa is deeply concerned about a potential coup, especially from his ambitious deputy, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga.
Mnangagwa, who seized power from the late President Robert Mugabe in a 2017 military coup spearheaded by Chiwenga, has never taken leave outside Zimbabwe since assuming office.
This decision appears calculated, reflecting fears that he could face the same fate as Mugabe if he were to leave the country, given the ongoing power struggles within the ruling Zanu PF party.
Mnangagwa and Chiwenga’s alliance has long been fraught with tension.
Following Mugabe’s ousting, insiders reported an informal agreement that Mnangagwa would serve a single term before handing over power to Chiwenga.
However, Mnangagwa’s actions suggest he is determined to hold onto power beyond his two constitutional terms, sidelining Chiwenga.
The former military commander and the face of the 2017 coup, Chiwenga, is viewed by many as a powerful figure who commands significant loyalty within the security sector.
His frustrations with Mnangagwa’s broken promises are now public, with reports of heated confrontations and factional battles within the party.
Announcing the president’s staycation, Charamba said:
“His Excellency, the President, will spend his vacation locally and will remain accessible for responsibilities that require his direct involvement, both in his capacity as Head of State and as Chairman of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).”
During Mnangagwa’s absence from routine duties, Vice President Kembo Mohadi will act as President from December 31, 2024, to January 19, 2025. Thereafter, Chiwenga will assume the role until Mnangagwa resumes duties in early February 2025.
Political analysts interpret this arrangement as a balancing act to keep Chiwenga placated while ensuring Mnangagwa’sgrip on power remains secure.
By staying in the country, Mnangagwa minimizes the risk of an organized coup or internal party rebellion.