Temba Mliswa refused to be intimidated by Retired Army Generals

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 PoliticsMliswa’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. 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: ​Silence During Deliberations:Why did this group remain silent when the resolutions for the Amendment Bill were being discussed within ZANU PF conventions and meetings? ​Anonymity and Threats:Why use “veiled threats” and titles instead of engaging in transparent public dialogue?

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​The “Fictitious” Narrative:Mliswa accused the group of feeding the public a false argument that universal adult suffrage is under siege, calling it a “wilful incitement of despondency.” ​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 inHurungwewith these “inhumane strategies,” stating that he resolutely refused to participate in “midnight camps,” relying instead on grassroots charisma and political engagement.

​The veteran politician concluded by emphasizing that theliberation struggleis a collective national heritage, not a “commodity” to be monopolized by a select few for political leverage. ​Democratic Accountability:Engagement should be based on the weight of arguments, not “ranks and medals.” ​Generational Renewal:Mliswa called for national leadership to shift to a younger generation, warning against the danger of “elders that are forever entitled to power.” ​”Hupenyu ndewa Mwari (Life belongs to God),” Mliswa noted, dismissing the efficacy of threats.

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