Harare – A leader within a faction of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association of Zimbabwe (ZNLWVA) has claimed his life is under threat following a recent trip to Zambia on what he insists was private business.
Andrease Mathibela, a vocal critic of the proposed extension of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term of office, says he received “credible information” suggesting that unnamed individuals are plotting against him, claiming he was spooked during his visit to Zambia.
Mathibela confirmed his trip to Zambia but vehemently denied allegations that it was related to political activities or funding. “There’s this ridiculous allegation that I had gone there to receive as much as US$17 million from some foreign government for our activities, which is obviously not true,” Mathibela told journalists, dismissing the claims as absurd. “If I had that kind of money, I would obviously be driving a Rollys-Royce like other characters.”
Mathibela’s claims come amid growing tensions surrounding the “2030 agenda,” a controversial plan to extend President Mnangagwa’s tenure beyond the constitutionally mandated two terms, which are due to end in 2028. The proposal has sparked fierce debate and division within the ruling Zanu-PF party, with reports of significant resistance from grassroots members.
The outspoken war veteran has been a staunch opponent of the 2030 agenda, arguing that it undermines democratic principles and threatens the country’s stability. He maintains that his criticism is not driven by partisan politics but by a genuine concern for the well-being of Zimbabwe and its citizens.
“My concern is that I have not offended anyone,” Mathibela said. “All I have said is that we need this country to normalise, for everyone to enjoy their freedom and independence.” He further asserted that he would not be silenced and would continue to speak out against what he perceives as misgovernance. “We continue with the struggle and this has nothing to do with partisan politics,” he stated. “We are simply saying that citizens are equally affected.”
Despite the perceived threat, Mathibela said he has not reported the matter to the police, citing a lack of trust in the security forces. “I don’t have confidence in the police or the security forces because more often (than not) when they approach me, it’s all about what I should give them (in terms of ) intelligence, which eventually works against me,” he explained. “So I don’t even see them being helpful… the source of the threat could be from them. So it’s very difficult to trust them. I have to protect myself at the end of the day.”
President Mnangagwa has publicly stated that he has no intention of seeking an extension to his term and that he will step down in 2028 as required by the constitution. However, scepticism remains among some quarters, particularly given the continued push for the 2030 agenda by some of his supporters.
The divisions within Zanu-PF over the 2030 agenda have become increasingly apparent in recent weeks, with reports of infighting and purges of those perceived to be disloyal. The situation remains fluid, and the coming months are likely to be crucial in determining the future political landscape of Zimbabwe.
