ZDF Commander fears food shortages could spark political unrest

By Tichaona Sibanda
26 January 2006

The commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, General Constantine Chiwenga is worried the deteriorating food shortages in the country could ignite civil unrest.

Reserve Bank Governor Gideon Gono revealed during his monetary policy statement this week that the Defence Forces commander had approached him and requested him to improve the food situation in the country. Gono, in a speech broadcast live on national television, said of the Defence forces chief; ‘to quote the wisdom of General Constantine Chiwenga, a hungry man is an angry man’ and he said we must do everything to ensure the army does not one day have to face angry Zimbabweans on the streets.

The Governor’s frank account is reported to have made ripples in many circles, exposing fears of possible food riots and political unrest. This was also a rare public warning by a senior Mugabe aide.

Political commentator Bekithemba Mhlanga said Gono’s disclosure is in fact an admission by the top military brass that they know about the people’s feelings on the streets.

‘This statement could be viewed in two ways. It could be a warning to politicians to sort out the mess as well as a warning to the public that the army is ready for any eventualities,’ said Mhlanga.