Midlands Bureau
Kwekwe Central legislator Cde Masango “Blackman” Matambanadzo has said he will remain loyal to the ruling Zanu-PF party despite his suspension.
Cde Matambanadzo was suspended for 21 days by the party’s provincial leadership on allegations of insubordination.
Of late, there have been reports that Cde Matambanadzo was planning to contest the forthcoming elections as an independent candidate ostensibly because he was being frustrated by some members of the provincial party leadership.
However, in an interview yesterday, Cde Matambanadzo said he will remain loyal to the party and will serve his suspension.
The legislator has since submitted his curriculum vitae for the May 5 primary elections.
When successful, Cde Matambanadzo intends to contest the Kwekwe Central seat under the revolutionary party’s ticket.
“I am a loyal party cadre and don’t wish to break ranks with the party.
“I will serve my suspension, but I have since submitted my CV, despite the suspension,” he said.
He also accused some senior party officials, who he claims hold personal grudges against him, of persecuting him and seeking to scupper his chances of participating in the forthcoming primary elections.
Cde Matambanadzo particularly questioned the timing of his suspension.
Midlands provincial party spokesperson Cde Cornelius Mpereri and the party’s deputy provincial spokesperson, Cde Goodwills Shiri, are also said to be eyeing Kwekwe Central.
“I was shocked with the timing of the suspension, which came soon after the party primary election dates were announced.
“There are some in the leadership who have personal grudges dating back to the old dispensation,” he said.
He also accused Cde Mpereri for trying to settle personal scores.
Cde Mpereri, however, insisted that the suspension of Cde Matambanadzo was done above board and that the provincial leadership had only recommended his suspension.
“Everything was done above board and the province has only recommended his suspension. We are waiting for the national decision on the matter,” said Cde Mpereri.



