He issued an impassioned and detailed statement last week, in which he said his family’s reputation had been damaged by the affair. He apologized to “each and every Zimbabwean for any discomfort caused by my actions”.
Tsvangirai pledged that “this dark patch in my private life will not dampen my commitment to serve my country and to deliver real change to the people”.
The PM confirmed that, in accordance with Zimbabwean culture, he had sent a delegation to the Karimatsenga family homestead on November 18 to perform traditional and cultural rites to formalize the relationship.
“I had good intentions to rebuild my family and start a new lease of life following the tragic passing on of my wife on 6 March 2009,” he said.
Following that, he said, the issue became the subject of media hype and political machinations that convinced him there was a “thicker plot” that undermined his confidence in the relationship.
“The ‘marriage’ has been hijacked and there is an apparent active political hand that is now driving the processes. State security agents have also weighed in to force and direct proceedings which has resulted in everything regarding this relationship now taking place in camera, with the public media journalists in tow,” says the statement.
He therefore decided to terminate the relationship.
“I want to admit that the last two weeks have been particularly bad for me, my children, my family and even ordinary Zimbabweans who have sought to find meaning to this sordid saga,” said the PM in his statement.
“My genuine intention has been betrayed and hearts have had to search long and hard to the true meaning of this well-choreographed drama that has now been hijacked to cause political damage on my person and character.”
Political analyst John Makumbe said Zimbabweans should accept the PM’s explanation and respect his right to privacy. He said the actions of enemy agents that have had a hand in the muddying of the PM’s image should be deplored.
“It is our fervent hope that the PM will remain focused on the management of national affairs,” said Makumbe.
Responding to Tsvangirai’s statement, a member of the Karimatsenga family, Simba Shopera, said:
“Do you think we are fools as a family just because we have been quiet? Do you think we invited the press to come and see our daughter being married to Tsvangirai? Do you think we embedded the CIO or Zanu (PF)?”
Shopera said the MDC had nothing to do with the issue as it was a pure matter between two people and their families.
He said Locadia was still at the Tsvangirai homestead in Buhera, despite claims by the premier that he had communicated with the family that he wants out of the relationship.
“Ask them where Locadia is right now. She is with her husband and they know that. The last time we heard from her was when she was going to Buhera to see her in-laws. I hope she is safe there.” he said.
Post published in: News