Violence erupted when youths loyal to Mvundura clashed with those supporting Oppah Muchinguri, Supa Mandiwanzira (MP Nyanga South), Mandi Chimene (MP Makoni South), Joseph Chinotimba (MP Buhera South), Chris Mushohwe (Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs) , Kudzi Chipanga (MP Makoni West) and Kelvin Manyengavana – who called for the vote.
In an attempt to solve the impasse, youths and party leaders went to Mutare Central Police station but violence continued until the Mutare Dispol Winstone Muza intervened.
Outspoken youth member Sheila Mutsenhu, a strong Mujuru supporter, and Emmanuel Tavaziva were accused of instigating the disturbances and have been kicked out of the party for tarnishing the image of the youth league. League chairman Mabuso Chinguno said: "Their behaviour was unacceptable, noting that as the vanguard of the party youths should be exemplary.”
A visibly angry Muchinguri said factionalism had weakened party structures in Manicaland and increased popularity of the MDC. “We now have a serious problem in the party where people are no longer greeting each other because of factions. Rumour-mongering is now the order of the day,” she said.
Mvundura said: “The message I got from the demonstration point is to the effect that people are against any divisive elements in the party. We should all work together and have Manicaland on the map all for the good reasons.”
Post published in: Mugabe Succession