via Golden chance for opposition – DailyNews Live 10 November 2014
HARARE – Zimbabwe’s political parties have a golden opportunity to weave their way to the electorate ahead of the 2018 elections.
In these exciting times which are highlighted by the bitter and dangerous squabbling in Zanu PF, Zimbabweans expect strong and people-driven opposition to up the ante.
So far, there has been little to suggest that the opposition political movements have the gravitas to turn the tables on Zanu PF and offer long suffering Zimbabweans good options ahead of 2018.
The main MDC has held its congress which concluded without much promise except booting out Nelson Chamisa and Tapiwa Mashakada, heavyweights who had been part of the 15-year political movement right from its formation.
If anything, the MDC congress resolved to recall MPs and senators who severed ties with this largest political grouping after a botched palace coup against its leader Morgan Tsvangirai.
What was disappointing about this recall, not that it has succeeded or failed, was that, if successful, it would further undermine alternative views in both Senate and House of Assembly.
This would further militate against opposition’s nascent democracy which Zanu PF has really tried to curtail — because Tsvangirai is on record for not participating in by-elections.
Perhaps it would have been in their (MDC) best interests to be seen to be courting or at least being conciliatory towards both the Tendai Biti and Welshman Ncube groups.
The MDC renewal team led by Sekai Holland and the other MDC by Ncube, despite holding talks of unity, remain in the shadows at a time when Zanu PF needs to be reminded of its failures and abrogation of duty by its government.
Simba Makoni and Lovemore Madhuku only speak when there is a chance of gaining political capital, yet in the absence of such as an opportunity both MKD and National Constitutional Assembly, are as good as not being in existence.
Zimbabweans expect opposition parties to do better and justify why they should be voted as alternatives to Zanu PF.
As long as the opposition treats itself as an alternative to Zanu PF but displaying severe lack of wisdom, it will remain jaundiced and continue to give Zanu PF oxygen.
For well-meaning and progressive opposition, this is the best time to take on Zanu PF and prove to the electorate that they have strength in unity and policies.
The opposition must rise above petty egos and profit from Zanu PF internal dissension.
COMMENTS
My sentiments exactly.
The problem with Zimbabwe’s opposition parties is that they see themselves as nothing but that: opposition. Their approach is to react and and then follow. Theirs is to dance to ZanuPF’s music. They lack the capacity to provide alternative leadership. At a time when there is a dearth of leadership in both govt and ZanuPF, one would have thought the opposition would rise and lead. But I have a feeling they are waiting for a cue from ZanuPF. What a pity!
True, there is no other way for opposition in Zimbabwe or any where to be split and win. Ruling parties entice its people by money and other benefits like awarding tenders and preferential treatments in money generating projects like business opportunities. Where as opposition have no other saleble merchandise except their policies. In these cases its best to bury the sword and be reconciliatory. Their real enemy is not MDCs or MDK but ZANU PF for its failure to address social and economic challenges.
True, there is no other way for opposition in Zimbabwe or any where to be split and win. Ruling parties entice its people by money and other benefits like awarding tenders and preferential treatments in money generating projects like business opportunities. Where as opposition have no other saleble merchandise except their policies. In these cases its best to bury the sword and be reconciliatory. Their real enemy is not MDCs or MDK but ZANU PF for its failure to address social and economic challenges