Sitting MDC-T MPs face stern test

Tensions and intra-party contestations within the MDC-T Mashonaland West province ahead of watershed elections pencilled for this year manifested at a stormy meeting at the weekend amid reports of vote-buying and spirited attempts by district leaders to block some sitting MPs from contesting the impending polls.

On Saturday, district chairpersons and organisers attending a no-holds-barred strategic meeting at the provincial offices in Chinhoyi reportedly raised concern over the calibre of some sitting MPs whom they accused of lacking grassroots support.

There were also reports of aspiring MPs having embarked on a vote-buying exercise in various constituencies.

Provincial organising secretary Wilson Makanyaire confirmed the stormy meeting.

"Indeed, we held a frank organising meeting where a number of issues were discussed, including concerns over imposition of candidates," Makanyaire said.

"The template is clear on confirmation of the candidacy of sitting MPs who would require two-thirds of district assembly votes and this would happen in all constituencies in the province save for only 11 which are in the hands of Zanu PF where primaries would definitely be conducted.

"In essence, it is the district executives and not provincial council or influential individuals within MDC-T that would have the power to elect a representative of the party. Those with grassroots support will be nominated to stand as party candidates."

Sources said there were machinations to block some incumbent lawmakers from contesting the coming general elections.

Makanyaire himself is reportedly eyeing Hurungwe West constituency currently held by Severino Tall Chambati.

Chinhoyi MP Stewart Garadhi and Chegutu West MP Takalani Matibe face the sternest tests as their district chairmen Eddie Kadewere and Ernest Mudimu respectively have reportedly declared their interests to take over their constituencies.

Besides the district chairman, Matibe would also have to contend with provincial elections director Francis Dhlakama and national representative member Charlton Hwende who have reportedly shown interest.

According to sources, the MPs have fallen out of favour with their erstwhile bosses, the district chairpersons, for their alleged "incompetence and absenteeism".

Contacted for comment, Garadhi said: "I am aware that there are schemes by my detractors within the party who want me out. There are aspiring MPs and these are working against my efforts to retain my post come the next elections."

MDC-T provincial chairman Japhet Karemba confirmed there was bad blood between some sitting MPs and their district chairpersons, a development he said was detrimental to unity in the party.