A Zimbabwe National Army general stated that military recruitment excludes opposition supporters and prioritizes families with Zanu-PF connections. Major General Walter Tapfumaneyi made the admission on Traditional Leaders' Day in Masvingo Province while explaining vetting procedures for applicants. He justified the policy by comparing opposition backers to unreliable hunting dogs that might betray their owners.
Tapfumaneyi previously led Forever Associates Zimbabwe and served as Deputy Director-General of the Central Intelligence Organisation before his military reinstatement. Provincial Affairs Minister Ezra Chadzamira praised the general for securing Zanu-PF's 2023 electoral success and commended the army community development projects. Chief Nhema welcomed military engagement with traditional authorities for national progress.
The comments intensified criticism about military politicization that critics say violates constitutional neutrality requirements. Observers argue the stance demonstrates how state security institutions remain intertwined with ruling party interests.
Tapfumaneyi previously led Forever Associates Zimbabwe and served as Deputy Director-General of the Central Intelligence Organisation before his military reinstatement. Provincial Affairs Minister Ezra Chadzamira praised the general for securing Zanu-PF's 2023 electoral success and commended the army community development projects. Chief Nhema welcomed military engagement with traditional authorities for national progress.
The comments intensified criticism about military politicization that critics say violates constitutional neutrality requirements. Observers argue the stance demonstrates how state security institutions remain intertwined with ruling party interests.
