Many participants, some in their late 80s, suspected the programme was a political gimmick by Zanu (PF) to buy loyalty ahead of elections. Party leaders Eric Samunda and Gladys Musinyani struggled to convince them that the exercise was genuine.
One angry ‘collaborator’, who chose to remain anonymous, said despite being promised decent accommodation and food, thousands went hungry and had to sleep on shop verandahs and in the open without blankets. Most had to walk long distances back home as they could not afford transport.
Less than half of the gathering went through the vetting process and others were advised to avail themselves for similar programmes to be conducted on dates yet to be announced.
“We condemned the fake exercise for what it was – a cheap political gimmick by Zanu (PF). Towards every election they recycle the fake war collaborators’ pension scheme. But this time around we are wiser,” said one participant.
Earlier this year some 15,000 ‘collaborators’ and political detainees convened a national congress at Rudhaka Stadium in Marondera. They were promised gratuities and other benefits as an appreciation by Zanu (PF) for their role in the liberation struggle. But nothing has yet materialized.
Post published in: Business