Temba Mliswa refused to be intimidated by Retired Army Generals
By Loice Takarindwa and Ruth Mpala(Harare)
In a blistering and defiant response to recent political developments, former legislator Temba Mliswa has publicly drawn a line in the sand, declaring that he will not be silenced or coerced by “menacing communications” from retired military figures. The confrontation centers on a heated debate surrounding Constitutional Amendment No. 3 and the role of the military in Zimbabwe’s civilian political sphere.
A Rejection of “Military Decorum” in Politics
Mliswa’s statement follows an exchange with Retired Air Marshal Henry Muchena (known also as Jabulani Mahlangu). Mliswa characterized Muchena’s recent outreach as a “political gimmick” and a “covert operation” designed to stifle democratic expression through intimidation—a tactic Mliswa says has no place in a modern Zimbabwe.
“Politics ought not to be characterized by intimidation; Zimbabwe is a democratic and not a military state where individuals must shrink from expressing their views,” Mliswa asserted.
He argued that the Second Republic is a product of the collective will of the people—citing the 2017 public uprising and parliamentary impeachment proceedings against Robert Mugabe—rather than a mere “extension of military influence.”
Challenging the “Muchena Cabal”
The core of the dispute involves Constitutional Amendment No. 3. While Muchena and his associates have positioned themselves as defenders of the Constitution, Mliswa questioned their sudden “resurfacing.”
Mliswa raised several pointed questions regarding their motives:
Confronting a “Dark Legacy”
In his most scathing critique, Mliswa addressed the historical record of the figures involved. He referenced the 2008 electoral runoff and 2013’s “Operation Return to Zanu PF,” alleging that Muchena and other military leaders oversaw violent campaigns that victimized thousands of innocent Zimbabweans.
Mliswa contrasted his own political career in Hurungwe with these “inhumane strategies,” stating that he resolutely refused to participate in “midnight camps,” relying instead on grassroots charisma and political engagement.
A Call for Generational Shift
The veteran politician concluded by emphasizing that the liberation struggle is a collective national heritage, not a “commodity” to be monopolized by a select few for political leverage.
”Hupenyu ndewa Mwari (Life belongs to God),” Mliswa noted, dismissing the efficacy of threats. By refusing to “shrink” from his views, Mliswa has signaled that the battle for Zimbabwe’s constitutional future will be fought in the court of public opinion, not through the “bellicose bravery” of the barracks.