Online Reporter
Chronicle Reporter
OPPOSITION Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) national chairman, Dr Tapiwa Mshakada, has resigned from his position with immediate effect and subsequently quit the party.
In a letter addressed to party president, Mr Douglas Mwonzora, Dr Mashakada wrote: “I hereby formally advise you of my decision to step down as national chairman of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) and to resign my membership of the party with immediate effect.
“This decision follows my appointment as a Commissioner of the Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC), a Chapter 12 Constitutional institution whose mandate requires Commissioners to discharge their duties independently, professionally, impartially and without political affiliation.”
Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet Dr Martin Rushwaya announced the appointments on Saturday. Other newly appointed members are Susan Makore, Caesar Zvayi, Munyaradzi Hwengwere, Rufaro Ellen Mhandu, Thokozile Chitepo, Merit Thokozile Munzwembiri, and Tanaka Muganyi.
Dr Mashakada said he applied for the ZMC position and was subsequently shortlisted for public interview and got appointed as one of the commissioners.
As a result he said he was aware that ZMC is an independent Chapter 12 constitutional institution, which is required to operate independently and to uphold the principles of professionalism, impartiality, neutrality and non-partisanship.
“Now, therefore, in order to uphold the constitutional requirements and preserve the independence and integrity of the Zimbabwe Media Commission, I, Tapiwa J. G. Mashakada, hereby resign as national chairman of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) and relinquish my membership of the Party with immediate effect,” he stated.
“I wish to place on record my appreciation for the opportunity to have served the Party and its membership in various capacities over the years. I remain grateful for the many years of service and the experiences that have shaped my public life.
“My resignation is, therefore, a matter of principle and constitutional propriety, and should not be construed as arising from any personal animosity or ill will towards the Party or its leadership.”
