Chamisa reverses suspension of MDC-T officials

MDC-T national organising secretary Nelson Chamisa on Thursday reversed the suspension of Harare and Chitungwiza provincial executives as leadership renewal factions square off in the districts and provinces.

Chamisa's call came as the purge of provincial leaders perceived to be aligned to suspended deputy treasurer Elton Mangoma continuing unabated.

Chitungwiza chairman Alexio Musundire had been booted out in the faction fights in a long list that also includes Harare and Manicaland chairmen Paul Madzore and Julius Magarangoma respectively.

Also purged leaders include youth national executive members Solomon Madzore and Promise Mkwananzi.

But Chamisa said: "The (party) constitution is clear on what should be done and we will assess case by case to see whether it's in line with what the constitution says. I want to assure you that we won't brook purging or targeting individuals for their own opinions, we are a democratic party."

He added the votes of no confidence passed on several party leaders would be reviewed by the party's national leadership.

"We are yet to receive reports of what is happening in the provinces and respond to such," he said. "There was yet to be communication on the purported suspension of Mkwananzi, Harare chairman Madzore, youth assembly chairman Solomon Madzore and Chitungwiza chairperson Musundire."

The lifting of the suspensions has been met with mixed reactions from the rank and file of party, but most activists accused Chamisa of siding with people perceived to be in the renewal camp.

"Chamisa has taken sides and this is despite that the province had reached a decision on Musundire," an irate Chitungwiza activist said.

Meanwhile, MDC-T spokesman Douglas Mwonzora confirmed that the party would soon finalise the composition of the three-member tribunal to conduct hearings on suspended Mangoma.

"The standing committee will be meeting next week to agree on the tribunal from among the names that had been brought forward," Mwonzora said.

Mwonzora did not disclose the names, but NewsDay has the list of shortlisted lawyers from insiders.

The list includes Harare lawyers Modercai Mahlangu, Brian Crozier, Victor Nyemba, Eric Matinenga and Trust Maanda.

"We understand Matinenga has asked to be excused, but the standing committee will make the final decision," the source said.