There was movement towards a combined front in recent weeks, with the major political parties and the smaller formations seeming to share the vision to join forces to unseat Zanu (PF). They held a press conference together in Harare ahead of the recent Maputo Southern African Development Community special summit in Harare.
The two Movement for Democratic Change formations separately led by Morgan Tsvangirai and Welshman and form part of a coalition government with Zanu (PF) spoke with one voice during the regional meeting, denouncing President Robert Mugabe’s unilateral decision when he proclaimed July 31 as the poll date.
MDC-N spokesman Kurauone Chihwayi said a coalition was the answer to Zimbabwe’s woes but there had been no progress. “It is a brilliant idea for democratic forces to come together to fight for the liberation of Zimbabwe. Unfortunately as things stand nobody has come to us and we have not approached anyone,” he said.
“We approved the idea of coalition at our meeting of the National Standing Committee. We want a united front against the corrupt and tired Zanu (PF). Anybody who wants a coalition should approach our Treasurer General, Paul Themba Nyathi or Secretary General, Priscilla Misihairabwi-Mushonga,” he said.
MDC-T President Morgan Tsvangirai and MDC-N leader Welshman Ncube have in past weeks been warming up to each other after years of mudslinging and name calling. Tsvangirai has even said that Ncube should be recognised as a principal in the Global Political Agreement instead of Arthur Mutambara, having earlier refused to do so.
Spokesman for Mavambo/Kusile Wilson Khumbula said his party was more than ready for the alliance but it had become sceptical at the lack of progress. “It is an idea that would work but MDC-T is being elusive,” Khumbula said.
MDC-T spokesman Douglas Mwonzora said his party remained committed to the idea, but admitted there had been no formal contact between the various parties. “The MDC has always maintained that it welcomes the unity and cooperation of all progressive forces for purposes of removing the dictatorship. We therefore call upon all political players to unite to remove Mugabe and his Zanu (PF). Cooperation has started in areas of common interest although there have been no formal talks. Unfortunately we cannot tell what form the coalition will take before there are negotiations. But as MDC-T, we are very serious about this issue,” he said.
Talk of an election alliance has heightened speculation that there might be a coalition government after the polls if the grand political union beats Zanu (PF). Mwonzora admitted that a government made up of different parties was likely in the event of a coalition.
Analyst Rejoice Ngwenya said the electoral map meant no single party was likely to win an outright majority on its own. “We are heading for a coalition government but for there to be national healing we need a coalition government based on mutual respect,” Ngwenya said.
Post published in: News