MDC-T youths bay for Mangoma's blood, Tsvangirai to the rescue

MDC-T leader Morgan Tsvangirai yesterday rescued deputy treasurer general Elton Mangoma from being assaulted by party youths who were baying for his blood outside Harvest House, accusing him of pushing for the ex-Premier's ouster.

Tsvangirai briefly addressed the youths as he came out of the party headquarters at around 2:30pm and warned them against violent behaviour.

But the youths shouted back saying they wanted to "teach Mangoma a lesson" before taking at dig at his physical condition.

Informed sources said the party's Women's league also staged a demonstration against Mangoma.

Mangoma is reported to have said he is ready to become the next MDC-T president if elected.

In a wide-ranging interview yesterday, Mangoma, who is experiencing a backlash from party members after he wrote a damning letter calling for Tsvangirai to step down as the MDC leader, was quick to point out that his ambition was not what motivated him to write the controversial letter.