His statements, made at a recent Mutare Press Club talk show, add to the security sector reform debate, as securocrats and Zanu (PF) members declare it is not necessary.
The issue of security sector reform has been a bone of contention between Zanu (PF) and its coalition partners in the Government of National Unity. The MDC-T and the MDC led by Welshman Ncube have on numerous occasions pointed out that the issue needs to be addressed as a matter of urgency.
However, Mutasa has steadfastly maintained that the service chiefs have a right to support a leader of their choice. Mutasa accused the MDCs of fronting the West in calling for security sector reform, saying the chiefs were doing their job professionally. He said wholesome reform was not possible but the MDCs should point out key areas they want reformed before elections.
“Chiwengwa is doing his job professionally. Chihuri is running the police well. We don’t want to be the echoes of the British and Americans. Specify which areas of the security sector you want to be addressed,” said Mutasa.
When asked whether it was within confines of the country’s laws for service chiefs to declare their political allegiance publicly, Mutasa said the chiefs were expressing personal views.
“If they say they will not recognize a leader without war credentials, then it’s their personal feelings,” said Mutasa.
He said President Mugabe and service chiefs were inseparable because they were together in the war of liberation. “It is difficult for chiefs not to support President Robert Mugabe because they were together in the bush,” Mutasa said.
He added that local trade unions openly supported Tsvangirai but no one questioned that relationship.
“Trade unions support Tsvangirai and you call it freedom of association but when service chiefs declare their allegiance to President Mugabe people cry foul. What is the difference between trade unions and the generals?” he queried.
The two MDCs are on record saying that the partisan conduct of the army, police force and Central Intelligence Organisation is clear evidence that security sector reform is urgently required. The two parties have been insisting that there is need to rein in the security chiefs, who they accuse of deviating from their mandate to serve the people.
Post published in: News