In clear reference to MDC-T acting president, Nelson Chamisa, chiefs in Mashonaland East said they would do everything within their powers to ensure that the opposition leader does not win.
Speaking during a meeting with Zanu PF Mashonaland East Women’s League in Marondera, Enos Musakwa known as Chief Musarurwa said they will not allow anyone who did not fight in the war of liberation to rule Zimbabwe. Said Chief Musarurwa:
We will not allow someone who was a toddler, learning to walk during the liberation war to be the president of this country. As chiefs, we will not allow people who have no track record in fighting for the country’s liberation struggle. We will not support someone who was young or not yet born during the war to be the President of Zimbabwe. Our support is with the people who fought for Zimbabwe’s independence.
Chapter 15 of the Constitution prohibits traditional leaders from interfering in political matters. This is clearly stated in section 281(2):
“2. Traditional leaders must not–
a. be members of any political party or in any way participate in partisan politics;
b. act in a partisan manner;
c. further the interests of any political party or cause; or
d. violate the fundamental rights and freedoms of any person”
In response to Chief Musarurwa’s statements, Mabel Chinomona, the Zanu PF Women’s League secretary, castigated women who supported Zanu PF while their children backed Chamisa. Said Chinomona:
You openly show that you support Zanu PF, but your children at home are supporting Chamisa and you are turning a blind eye to that. You should stop that and take action against them. We will not allow that to happen.
More: NewZimbabwe.com