Mnangagwa Retires ZNA Chief, Appoints Sanyatwe Sports Minister

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has made significant changes in Zimbabwe's military and governmental leadership by retiring Lieutenant General Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe from his role as Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) and appointing him as the new Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture. This transition follows the election of Kirsty Coventry as the first woman president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), leading to her departure from the ministry. Sanyatwe's retirement and appointment have raised questions regarding factional politics within the ruling Zanu PF party, especially given his controversial past involving the violent crackdown on protesters in 2018. The Chief Secretary to the President confirmed the changes were effective immediately, citing constitutional and legal provisions. Meanwhile, Major General Emmanuel Matatu has been appointed as the new Commander of the ZNA, taking over at a critical time for national security. Further details on Matatu's plans for the army are anticipated in the coming days.