Full Text: Daniel Shumba Withdraws From Mnangagwa's Dialogue
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has formally withdrawn from the so called National Dialogue process. It’s insincere, choreographed, and highly compromised process, with some political principals singing for their supper.
We disagree with the process, purpose, issues and level of engagement. Clearly, no outcomes can be expected from this facade. The process starts with a predetermined agenda even before agreeing on the moderator, issues, or milestones. Its inconsequential and of no effect.
The President didn’t even attend nor extend an apology. Was presided on by a Nhare, who is clearly out of his depth, and following a Zanu PF script. They refuse to broaden the participation to include other stakeholders. Zimbabwe is broader than just political parties.
The Constitution of Zimbabwe doesn’t provide for such a process. The absence of a willingness to legitimize the Nation Dialogue renders it an adventure or circus. The UDA refuses to be blindfolded or used as an extension of Zanu PF. The Nation shouldn’t expect any outcomes.
After the introductory remarks by political principals, the President ought to have responded to the litany of issues raised. The President is in deliberate and willful violation of the Constitution. The Mwenezi threats reveal the disregard and disrespect of this process.
The National Dialogue fallacy is meant to clothe the fox in sheep’s clothes. The UDA won’t sanitize a conspiracy or be part of a betrayal of the people’s expectations. We’re not opportunists and won’t be part of a process that fortifies delinquencies at the people’s expense.
The UDA will be joining a Constitutional Application confirming the President’s deliberate and wilful negation of duty in terms of section 167(2)(d) of the Constitution. It’s time for constitutionalism and the rule of law. Standing with the people. ‘For such a time as this’.
