Zanu (PF) dangles carrot for Chebundo ouster

Sources told The Zimbabwean that pledges of cash and vehicles have been made to Chebundo’s fellow MDC-T members to ensure that he loses the seat to Zanu (PF)’s candidate Masango Blackman Matambanadzo. It is understood that the Zanu (PF) leadership, reportedly backed by party Legal Affairs Secretary and Defence Minister Emmerson Mnangagwa, which controls the majority of gold-rich fields in and around the city, were shaken by Chebundo’s declaration that he would spearhead major mining reforms to ensure transparency, professionalism and accountability of proceeds from all claims in the post-election era likely to see MDC-T ascending into power.

The first offer of a brand new Jeep vehicle was made last week to outspoken Ward 1 MDC-T councillor Mbekezeli Ndlovu who commands huge support. Unknown individuals in the vehicle approached the city father at his homestead in Mbizo and told him that they would leave it for him if he joined forces working against ouster of MDC officials, starting with Chebundo.

“It is true, the guys came to my house with the Jeep. They dangled the car keys before me and said they would immediately leave it for me if I agreed to leave my party and work with them. However, I shot down their offer and told them to go to the people who voted for me first,” said Ndlovu.

Chebundo told this reporter he was aware of the issue but feared for his life because the offers to him insinuated at elimination.

“I hear they have promised $300,000 and a Land Cruiser vehicle for anyone who would oust me. To me it appears what they mean includes taking my life. I have become very cautious in all aspects of my survival including what I drink, eat and where I go,” said Chebundo.

“It is not the first time that Zanu (PF) has attempted to do away with me. In April 2000, a group of about 15 Zanu (PF) activists approached me when I was waiting for transport to work. The hit squad’s leader accused me of challenging Mnangagwa and poured about 15 litres of petrol on me and attempted to set me ablaze. Fortunately, the matchbox he was carrying had become damp and so he failed. That is what saved me. Six days later, a mob of 50 Zanu (PF) goons invaded my house in Msasa park reducing it to ashes.

“Everything which I had worked for in 21 years was destroyed and because my party was still in its infancy, I did not receive any compensation. Since I became MP, I have been arrested 11 times on false charges – all thrown out by the courts. However after all this, I remain resolute and will never be shaken in my contributions towards real change,” said Chebundo.