Mugabe directs Zanu-PF Mashonaland East to vote again

President Mugabe has directed Zanu-PF Mashonaland East to reconstitute its line-up of Central Committee nominees following concerns that those forwarded have factional links.

The ruling party's First Secretary said he had learnt that the list submitted yesterday contained individuals linked to former provincial chair Ray Kaukonde, who was ousted for sponsoring factionalism and seeking President Mugabe's ouster.

The President told the province to select candidates in a fresh and democratic process that reflects the people's will.

Some Mashonaland East delegates were heard whispering that Cdes Sydney Sekeramayi and Simbaneuta Mudarikwa were among the "bad apples that spoiled the basket".

A larger group went on to denounce those presented to the President.

President Mugabe said: "You are the only province that has raised this concern.

"But these are the people you gave us. We now hear that tadzorera vanhu vaKaukonde.

"If you say they did not come from you, who then elected them? We will do as you wish by making sure new elections are held.

"We will send representatives to assist you in this matter."