Obert Gutu
The opposition party was responding to reports that chiefs in Manicaland province have reportedly launched an intimidation campaign against opposition supporters with headmen accused of not supporting Zanu PF being ousted ahead of 2018 election.
“Traditional leaders are supposed to be apolitical. This is very clear and unambiguous provision in terms of Section 281(2) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe,†said MDC-T spokesman Obert Gutu.
“We have maintained that traditional leadership should not be politicians. The problem is that Zanu PF regime routinely forces traditional leaders to act as their political commissars in the areas under their jurisdiction.
“Of course, not only is this practice reprehensible, it is also patently illegal and unconstitutional.â€
Chief Nerutanga of Buhera and his Marange counterpart have been accused of intimidating headmen they suspect to be loyal to the MDC-T and other opposition parties.
Chief Gilbert Marange recently told a meeting in Mutare West that he would not allow opposition parties to make inroads in areas under his jurisdiction.
“We will not allow the MDC-T and Zim PF to hold their meetings in my area. This area is secured,†the chief told a gathering of local villagers.
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