MDC set to regroup

The Movement for Democratic Change party has said it is still alive and its leader; Professor Welshman Ncube has no plans to quit the party despite its drubbing in the July 31 elections and the recent quitting of several of its key officials.

The MDC is set to regroup and restrategise in a bid to revive its operations following its depressing loss in the 2013 elections.

Edwin Ndlovu, MDC Bulawayo province spokesperson admitted they lost dismally, but they have since identified a few mistakes which can be corrected ahead of the 2018 elections.

Ndlovu also said that his party will be led by Prof Ncube until the elective congress decides in January 2016.

In November, deputy party spokesperson, Kurauone Chihwayi said contrary to reports, the MDC was still intact and financially sound to continue with its political programmes.

"Ncube is still in control of the party and doing everything possible to motivate, energise and empower the MDC troops ahead of future political processes," he said. "He does not have any plan to retreat or surrender."

Chihwayi said the MDC was a "death and storm resistant" political party with adequate machinery to wrestle State House from President Robert Mugabe and Zanu PF.

"The party is in one piece and currently working on a plan of action that will shake and shock election fraudsters and those working on our demise," he said.

Chihwayi said reports of fragmentation; internal rifts and extinction were baseless, exaggerated and fictitious.

The MDC has been rocked by an exodus of top officials among them former Insiza South MP and national executive council member, Siyabonga Malandu Ncube, former research and policy director Qhubani Moyo and secretary for international relations Sondon Mugaradziko.

The party's Bulawayo secretary for the youth, Ntando Ndlovu, has also reportedly resigned.

Another national executive member Edward Mkhosi has threatened to quit in solidarity with other members of the party who have resigned.

Recently the troubled party expelled its Matabeleland South chairman Petros Mukwena and former Bulawayo deputy mayor, Alderman Charles Mpofu for criticising the leadership over the imposition of Priscilla Misihairabwi-Mushonga as Matabeleland South legislator under the women's quota.