Addressing villagers in Chief Muusha’s area in Chimanianini, ZNA Chief of Staff, Major General Martin Chedondo, revealed that the army needed the co-operation of local leaders.
"Chiefs are the custodians of the people and we have found it fit to involve them in our recruitment exercises. They will forward names of aspiring officers from their respective areas to be recruited in the army," said Chedondo.
Political commentators said the idea by the partisan army to involve chiefs in the recruitment exercise was `illegal and dubious` as traditional leaders should be apolitical.
"Chiefs must stick to their roles as custodians of our culture and heritage. They should not meddle in the political affairs of the country. This is Zanu (PF) intimidation tactics to coerce villagers into voting for them," said Chris Makuwerere, a local political analyst from the Centre for Democracy Institute.
Villagers and unemployed youths expressed concern over Chedondo’s statement to involve chiefs in the army’s recruitment exercise.
"The traditional chiefs are partisan and obviously the names will come from Zanu (PF) supporters. Where in the world have chiefs been involved in recruitment of the army? The whole idea is sinister. I think they want people who are loyal and will come to terrorise us here after the training," said Munyaradzi Bwawo from Muusha village.
Post published in: News