The group, calling itself the "Bloc of Rebels," is said to be led by retired Air Vice-Marshal Henry Muchena and has raised concerns about the country's political future.
The retired officers are strongly against Constitutional Amendment No. 3, a proposed law that would extend the terms of the president and members of Parliament from five years to seven. Critics believe the proposal could allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in power longer than expected.
The group's campaign first became public in March 2026 when a petition was submitted to Parliament calling for a national referendum on the amendment. Although Henry Muchena was the only person to sign the petition publicly, reports suggest several other retired military leaders are involved behind the scenes.
According to reports, members of the group met President Mnangagwa twice in May 2026 to discuss their concerns. However, the meetings reportedly included personal requests from some members, including appeals for government positions, making the situation more complicated.
Henry Muchena has a long history in Zimbabwe's military and politics. He served in the liberation struggle before rising to become a senior Air Force officer. After retiring, he worked for ZANU-PF in party mobilisation. His decision to oppose the constitutional amendment marks a major shift from his previous role within the ruling party.
Other retired military figures linked to the group include Lieutenant-General Martin Chedondo and Major-General Mike Sango. Both held senior military and diplomatic positions and have remained influential even after leaving active service.
The emergence of the "Bloc of Rebels" highlights growing divisions within ZANU-PF, where different factions have been competing for influence since the removal of former President Robert Mugabe in 2017. Political analysts believe disagreements over leadership and the country's direction are becoming more visible.
Zimbabwe also continues to struggle with economic challenges, including inflation, rising prices and currency instability. These difficulties have increased public frustration and may be contributing to political disagreements among former leaders.
While the government has not accepted many of the allegations made by the retired generals, the dispute has drawn national attention.
As debates over the constitutional amendment continue, many Zimbabweans will be closely watching whether the growing divisions inside the ruling party lead to major political changes in the months ahead.
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Politics