Illegal demos, a threat to national security: Musvosvi

Political Reporter

Political analyst Tendai Musvosvi has issued a stern warning against growing calls for the unconstitutional removal of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, describing such demands as not only illegal but a direct threat to Zimbabwe's stability and economic recovery.

In an exclusive interview with this publication this afternoon, Musvosvi emphasised that while democratic dissent is legitimate, attempts to force out a constitutionally elected leader through street protests or other unlawful means cross a dangerous line.

"There is a clear difference between political opposition and outright treason. Calling for the violent or unlawful removal of a sitting president is not activism—it is an attack on the state itself. Zimbabwe cannot afford chaos when we are still rebuilding our economy," Musvosvi said.

Musvosvi's comments come amid rising political tensions, with some opposition figures and activists advocating for mass protests to pressure President Mnangagwa's Government.

However, the analyst argued that such actions would only derail the country’s fragile progress.

"Every nation has political disagreements, but resolving them requires dialogue, not destruction. What good does it do to burn buses, loot shops, and paralyse cities? The ordinary Zimbabwean will suffer the most," he said.

He further stressed that President Mnangagwa’s mandate, derived from the 2023 elections, must be respected until the next constitutional electoral process.

"If people are dissatisfied, the ballot box—not the streets—is the proper channel for change. Undermining constitutional processes sets a dangerous precedent that could haunt Zimbabwe for decades," added Musvosvi.

The political analyst also cautioned young Zimbabweans against being used as pawns in what he described as politically motivated unrest.

"Some so-called leaders are inciting violence while they sit comfortably in safety. The youth must ask themselves: Who truly benefits from riots? Not the poor vendor whose stall is destroyed, not the worker who can’t reach their job—only those seeking power at any cost," said Musvosvi.

His sentiments align with growing public frustration over protest movements that many believe are being hijacked by individuals with personal agendas rather than genuine national concerns.

While acknowledging citizens' right to peaceful protest, Musvosvi urged authorities to firmly but lawfully address any attempts at insurrection.

"The state has a duty to maintain order. Allowing mob rule would be an abdication of that responsibility,” opined Musvosvi.

Meanwhile, Musvosvi’s message underscores a critical choice: whether the nation will pursue progress through unity and lawful means or risk regression through division and instability.