MDC-T factions battling to get recognition from donors

HARARE - The Movement for Democratic Change led by former Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai (MDC-T) has splintered into two factions in a power struggle threatening to disintegrate the official opposition party.

'Expelled' MDC-T secretary-general Tendai Biti is leading a faction of the party calling for Tsvangirai to step down, while the former premier's camp wanted to maintain the status quo.

The two factions have been battling to get recognition from donors and have separately met Western diplomats in the capital to sell their positions, with Biti reportedly having an edge over Tsvangirai.

According to NewsDay some donors have said "you can't have an MDC-T without Tendai Biti or Tsvangirai," hence efforts are being made to unite the two warring factions.