War Collaborators Defend Matuke’s Liberation Struggle Credentials

ZANU PF war collaborators have launched a petition defending State Security Minister Lovemore Matuke following accusations that he did not take part in the liberation struggle.

The dispute reportedly broke out during a recent ZANU PF politburo meeting in Harare after Matuke allegedly accused Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga of harbouring presidential ambitions.

This came after Chiwenga presented a dossier detailing alleged corrupt activities by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s allies.

An angry Chiwenga is said to have hit back by questioning Matuke’s war credentials.

War collaborators have argued that Chiwenga’s remarks demean their role in the country’s fight for independence. The petition reads in part:

“We write with deep concern regarding recent comments made by some senior leaders of our party, ZANU PF, which disrespect the contributions of war collaborators.

“Specifically, we are troubled by remarks at Comrade Matuke, which implied that he never participated in the war effort.

“It is on record that Comrade Matuke, like many others, played a vital role in the liberation of Zimbabwe as a war collaborator.”

The war collaborators said the liberation struggle was a team effort, and belittling their role disrespects the very essence of the country’s fight for freedom. They said:

“As members of ZANU PF, we are all equal and must treat each other with the utmost respect.”

ZANU PF is set to hold its elective congress in 2027 to choose the party’s next leader and presidential candidate for the 2028 elections.

However, a faction loyal to President Mnangagwa is reportedly pushing to postpone the 2028 elections to 2030, ostensibly to allow him to complete his development agenda.

More: NewsDay