Mugabe’s long-time backers rebelling

Veterans of Zimbabwe’s independence war made a significant break with President Robert Mugabe for the first time yesterday, calling him dictatorial, manipulative and egocentric.

The Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association has been a pillar of support for the 92-year-old leader for decades, but it released a statement criticising the man it had long been quick to defend. The veterans are known for unleashing violence on those opposing the government.

The surprise revolt by Mugabe’s ageing corps of loyalists comes after nationwide antigovernment protests organised via social media. Many in Zimbabwe are frustrated by a rapidly deteriorating economy, a currency crisis and alleged corruption.

‘‘We note, with concern, shock and dismay, the systematic entrenchment of dictatorial tendencies, personified by the president and his cohorts, which have slowly devoured the values of the liberation struggle,’’ the statement said after dozens of veterans’ representatives from around the country met yesterday.

The group said it would no longer support Mugabe’s political campaigns, accusing him of abandoning the veterans for the youth league of the ruling party ZANU-PF.

The veterans’ group, whose members are in their 60s and older, blamed the southern African country’s economic crisis on ‘‘bankrupt leadership,’’ and it accused Mugabe of corruption: ‘‘This rot needs to be uprooted, and right now.’’

There was no immediate comment from the government. Mugabe has repeatedly said he plans to rule until he dies.