Only 8 freedom fighters join MDC-T

EIGHT prominent war veterans and collaborators from Mashonaland East province were last week paraded at an MDC-T rally in Gweru, after they defected to the opposition party, citing neglect by the ruling party.

MDC-T organising secretary, Abednico Bhebhe, said the war veterans were among thousands of other freedom fighters looking for a new political home after being let down by the Zanu-PF government.

One of the war veterans, who identified herself as Kalipa Shunguhadziurayi, told thousands of MDC-T supporters that most freedom fighters and their families were suffering, while a few in the ruling Zanu-PF party were enjoying the fruits of independence.

"Our children are suffering and they will continue suffering when we die because of long neglect by (President Robert) Mugabe and Zanu-PF. We have decided to do the right thing and join the right party," she said.

A war collaborator, Regis Musengeyi echoed the same sentiments adding that Zanu-PF had a tendency of using freedom fighters during elections and dumping them after.

MDC-T leader, Morgan Tsvangirai blasted Zanu-PF for seeking to monopolise the liberation struggle.

"It was a national struggle yet others say we fought the war so we are a special class," the MDC-T leader said.

"As freedom fighters, you have done the right thing since you have come back to the people and you must play your part in ensuring the people win next year's water elections."

A section of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association has turned its back on Mugabe and vowed not to support his candidature in the upcoming presidential elections slated for mid next year.