Mwonzora slams opposition divisions

Joseph Madzimure Senior Reporter
MDC-Alliance deputy secretary for external relations Mr Douglas Mwonzora has slammed divisions in the opposition outfit, saying they were counterproductive. Mr Mwonzora, who is being targeted by a section of the party’s paramilitary group, the Vanguard, is accused of wining and dining with MDC-T leader Dr Thokozani Khupe, resulting in the leadership wrangle that has spilled into the courts.

In an interview with The Herald, Mr Mwonzora said it was unfortunate that some youths were being paid to attack other party leaders.

Instead, he wants the party to start preparing for the 2023 elections.
“It is the work of wayward and misguided individuals who lack basic understanding of politics,” said Mr Mwonzora.

“They pay poor youngsters to issue irresponsible statements. This is in order to cover up for their incompetence and political misjudgement. The party needs to reorganise itself in preparation for the elections. The ignition of irresponsible infighting is a great disservice to the people of Zimbabwe.”

MDC-Alliance secretary-general Mr Charlton Hwende dismissed talk of divisions in the party.
“There are no divisions within the party,” he said.

“Mwonzora is focusing on his new portfolio. I was with him today (yesterday) at the airport. All is well, we came together from Victoria Falls where we attended a (pre)-national Budget meeting. It is only a creation and imagination of some people.

“The party is not facing any challenges as far as I am concerned. Mwonzora is focusing on his new role as the deputy secretary for external relations,” said Mr Hwende.

It is alleged that the youths were attacking Mr Mwonzora on the orders of Mr Chamisa.
Party hawks say Messrs Chamisa and Mwonzora have a long standing tiff which emanates from the time they battled for the secretary-general position of the party at the 2014 congress.

Mr Mwonzora won after receiving 2 464 votes against Mr Chamisa’s 1 756.
Last year, there was drama at the funeral of former MDC-T leader Mr Morgan Tsvangirai in Buhera when one of the former vice presidents, Dr Khupe, together with Mr Mwonzora, were attacked by youths loyal to Mr Chamisa.