War Veterans Pressure Group Backs Chiwenga, Raises Concerns Over Zanu PF Conference
The War Veterans Pressure Group has endorsed Vice President Constantino Chiwenga’s call for introspection and people-centred leadership within Zanu PF, while raising concerns about developments at the party’s annual conference in Chinhoyi. The group says its support for Chiwenga is based on principle rather than factional politics.
In a statement delivered at a press conference on 22 October 2026, the group criticised the reported hostility towards Chiwenga during the conference, held at Chinhoyi University of Technology from 12 to 17 October.
The veterans also called for an independent investigation into allegations that individuals were mobilised and financially induced to disrupt the Vice President’s address.
War Veterans Pressure Group Explains Its Support For Chiwenga
The group said Chiwenga’s concerns about the party’s direction, accountability and collective leadership deserved consideration.
“Our support is principled, not factional,” the statement said, stressing that the endorsement was not unconditional loyalty to an individual or support for an internal political contest.
The veterans argued that leaders should be able to express differing views without being silenced. They also warned against replacing people-centred leadership with a system in which loyalty to individuals takes precedence over institutions and principles.
The group called for peaceful, democratic and constitutional processes to address disagreements within the governing party.
Constitutional Amendment And War Veterans’ Welfare Under Scrutiny
The statement also raised questions about Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3 of 2026. The group said it had approached the courts over concerns about the amendment and called for judicial independence in determining the matter.
It challenged claims that war veterans had been consulted on proposed changes to the Zanu PF constitution, demanding details of when consultations took place, who participated and what resolutions were adopted.
The group further called for action on allegations of political patronage and corruption, as well as improved pensions, healthcare and social protection for liberation war veterans.
The veterans said their concerns extended beyond party politics to unemployment, declining living standards and public services. They urged the government to honour its 2023 electoral commitments and prioritise improving citizens’ lives.
The group concluded by reiterating that its loyalty was to Zimbabwe, its people and the Constitution, rather than any individual or political faction.
Its statement adds to the debate surrounding Chiwenga’s address at the conference, where he called for accountability, collective leadership and change driven by the people.
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