How did you get into politics?
I joined the MDC in South Africa under the Hillbrow branch in 2003. I have been a vibrant activist in SA since then. I was a founding member and secretary general of the youth group Zimbabwe Action Movement in 2006. I also served as Head of Security for the pressure group. I was also the Chairman of the MDC youth assembly in SA before taking my current position in the party.
What motivated you to join MDC and which ward are you eyeing?
I was motivated to join the party by events that unfolded in Zimbabwe in the last few years. I want to represent people as a councilor of Bulilima-East ward One. This ward is a mix of urban and semi urban settlements in Plumtree Town.
Why did you leave South Africa and return to Zimbabwe?
When I came to SA I thought the struggle was much more intense outside the country but I was disappointed to note that Zimbabweans mostly do not want to engage in politics in foreign lands. I realised that back home there is a need for people to make sacrifices, especially the youth, as leaders are in short supply.
With the adoption of the new draft constitution I believe times are changing for the better politically, economically and socially.
Are you confident that you will be voted in?
I have faith that I will win the primary elections. Youths are behind me and I have the required qualifications to stand.
What programmes have you been pioneering in your ward?
I have not done any project except for teaching young people about the importance of participating in political issues. I was invited home by people who feel I have what it takes to develop our area.
If you are given the opportunity to represent your party, what do you hope to achieve?
I have plans to turn our ward into a better place. There are many job opportunities that are not utilized and those are some of the issues I will address.
What challenges have you encountered?
I was shocked by the high level of poverty and unemployment. I try to assist here and there but people are struggling to survive in everyday life and that is a stumbling block for me.
What’s your political aim?
I am a democrat, nothing more. If we can create a democracy then I will sit down and look after my family. I want to see a free and prosperous country, where no one is second-class citizen because of his colour, religion or language.
Having spent years in the Diaspora, how can Zimbabweans in exile contribute to the social, economic and political processes back home?
In the short term, they can continue supporting their families back home and keep the extended family structure intact. In the long run, I expect them to invest back home to help develop the community, especially in the education and health sector.
Politically, they must keep themselves abreast with matters happening back home and be registered to vote.
Will you be happy to pioneer a united constituency?
If elected, I will without any doubt. I am working hard to eliminate the discrimination against any individual because of a certain party affiliation. For communities to grow we should work collectively.
Are you not worried about the prospect of Mugabe’s regime rigging the poll?
I doubt whether this time they can rig. I expect the next election to be done a bit differently from the previous ones.
Are you satisfied with the new constitution?
I am not 100% satisfied with it, but I am happy with a lot of it. I have faith that with time and proper engagement we will get closer to an all inclusive document. The most important part is voting for the right people to defend the constitution and make sure that it is respected.
Post published in: News