The leader of the opposition MDC, Nelson Chamisa has castigated the removal of a traditional leader, Chief Ndiweni from his traditional role saying the institution of traditional leaders and its independence should be protected.
His remarks come after President Emmerson Mnangagwa removed the outspoken leader from his post. Chamisa posted on Twitter saying:
The persecution of Chief Ndiweni is unacceptable. An attack on a chief is an attack on a people, culture and heritage. The chieftainship is rooted in a people’s identity not vindictive partisan politics and undue interference. Smith tried it but Rhodesia ultimately failed &fell.
The institution of traditional leaders & its independence should be protected thru the framework defined in the constitution. Traditional leaders serve a vital purpose in preserving our cultural heritage, must not be used against the people they represent to silence genuine concerns
The government should play no role in the appointment of traditional leaders, but such processes should be determined by the traditions of the local community.
A rightful leader cannot be imposed on a people. Our call for genuine reforms driven by the people’s agenda must keep growing louder & force institutional change. It is not the role of government to impose itself on the people.
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