A Sunday News article has claimed that the MDC’s 5th elective congress that was recently held in Gweru has helped in disclosing serious democratic deficiencies in the party.
The author of the article, Khumbulani Vodloza Sibanda argues that during the party deliberately scandalised the court for political opportunism. Sibanda said:
This has the effect of undermining the Judiciary. The conduct of the congress itself left adherents of democracy in doubt as to the party’s commitment to fair play and transparency. Right from the start of the provincial congresses, Chamisa made sure that intimidation and violence were visited upon anyone who dared aspire to challenge him for that party’s presidency.
The author also notes that the violence targeted at ousted secretary-general, Douglas Mwonzora and his supporters for daring to challenge Nelson Chamisa for the party presidency was undemocratic. Sibanda also condemns Chamisa’s presence at provincial congresses where provincial members were choosing their candidates ahead of the main congress. Sibanda said:
This was gross intimidation and abuse of incumbency. Who would dare nominate other interested members to lead MDC when Chamisa and his violent Vanguard misfits were in the caucuses. No wonder why he emerged uncontested. Mwonzora eventually withdrew from the presidential race.
Sibanda also claims that Chamisa himself would complain about vote buying. The article suggests that contributions by VP aspirants, Tendai Biti, and Welshman Ncube were meant to influence the delegates. The author also decried the barring of many delegates from voting.
More: The Sunday Mail