Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere in HWEDZA
ZANU-PF’S emphasis on cell-based political mobilisation is a concept that borrows from the war of liberation, and its use in modern governance and politics guarantees grassroots participation and inclusive development, Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga has said.
VP Chiwenga said this in Hwedza, his rural home, where he attended the Makarichi Zanu PF cell meeting with fellow villagers on Saturday.
The meeting was held in line with the party’s proclaimed national cell day, earmarked to maximise membership participation as well as auditing the party register.
Speaking to fellow cadres, VP Chiwenga said there was no better way to uptake members’ views on national issues than engaging right from the base.
“Through the cells, we worked closely with the community and with the war collaborators to ensure the struggle succeeded,” said VP Chiwenga.
“Now we are in a new era, an industrial revolution. Let the lessons of the war of liberation guide our development journey, let us be united so we can develop our country. Let us summon the same unity that helped us win the war of liberation.
“Development of the country should also start from here, that is why, as the Government, we have come up with the Village Business Units, it is a concept that leaves no one and no place behind.
“But for these efforts to be a success, you must start your small projects, and we come in to assist you.”
He said he attended the event because he respected the party’s established procedures and protocols, adding that the day reinforced unity and discipline within the party.
A stalwart in party processes and procedures, having served as Zanla Deputy National Political Commissar and member of the High Command during the war of liberation, VP counselled that good standing in the party is a product of abiding by the ideals and constitution of the party at all times.
He also pledged to provide copies of the party constitution to cell members, saying the document would help members remain guided by the party’s principles and toe the correct line.
“I will buy copies of the party constitution so that every member here has access. We must all follow the party’s procedures and protocols,” said VP Chiwenga.
“If you are in doubt, consult that book, otherwise we risk losing a great deal, including the party slogans, by doing things the wrong way.
“I am here because I understand the importance of following the party’s norms, procedures, and protocols.”
Makarichi cell chairperson, Cde Stanley Mutete, who chaired the meeting attended by the Vice-President, said he was in awe at the way the VP strictly subordinated himself to party protocol.
Cde Mutete said the display of discipline and respect for established procedures reflected the seriousness with which the leadership approaches party work, adding that it inspired confidence among members and reinforced the importance of adherence at all levels.
Bongani Ndlovu