BY ITAI DZAMARA
HARARE
The idea of a coalition of political forces that would undoubtedly unseat President Robert Mugabe at the 2008 elections is being mooted. Talks behind the scenes have already been held, according to impeccable sources, between the leader of the opposition, Morgan Tsvangirai, and some disgruntled elements from Zanu (PF) fronted by former cabinet minister Simba Makoni.
It is believed that Arthur Mutambara, the leader of the MDC breakaway faction, has also been involved. We have established that a meeting took place in South Africa recently between Tsvangirai, Makoni and retired army general Solomon Mujuru.
Political analysts are convinced that such a coalition would put an end to the Mugabe era. Our sources say the coalition also has the backing of elements within the government of President Thabo Mbeki of South Africa.
“They believe this will provide an answer to Zimbabwe’s political crisis and it is being pursued parallel to the current talks involving Zanu (PF) and MDC,” said a source.
Makoni, who is widely respected internationally and has a growing following at home, is reported to be mulling over the various options and modalities of how to proceed, said a highly-placed source.
“The Zanu (PF) option is out and he has already started weighing the others, which include forming a new party. However, a coalition with other existing parties would be stronger and stand better chances of unseating Mugabe,” said the source.
Both Tsvangirai and Makoni refused to discuss the matter when contacted for comment. But sources insisted the coalition was “very likely” and could be announced in January, once the necessary structures had been agreed.
“The desire is there in all the political formations and individuals. The major issue to tackle is the actual power sharing. A possible structure, which has already been considered and debated, is that of having Tsvangirai as the leader of the coalition backed by Makoni and Mutambara.”
Makoni leads a group in Zanu (PF) that has been advocating for reformation of the ruling party and calling for an end to Mugabe’s stranglehold on power, which has led to unprecedented economic decline. In an interview with this paper last month, Makoni said he was prepared to play a role in the political leadership of the country if called upon to do so.