MDC-T scorned over by election boycott

The Morgan Tsvangirai led MDC has received a barrage of attacks for its decision not to take part in the by elections in 14 constituencies where former members who joined the MDC Renewal team were expelled from.

Political and social commentators said if that was the case it was better if the MDC-T just ignored recalling the MPs as that seriously weakened the opposition chances of challenging Zanu PF in decision making at parliament.

A media scholar and political commentator Pedzisai Ruhanya said the decision by the MDC-T not to contest in the by-elections after recalling 21 MPs from Parliament only makes sense to the deluded. 'Strategically and in terms of building opposition coalitions in future, was it not better to leave the MPs under Renewal, address through dialogue their differences than allowing these urban constituencies to be occupied by ZANU PF,' said Ruhanya.

'Who in the opinion of the MDC-T is a possible ally between ZANU PF and MDC Renewal? This decision is based more on childish analysis of issues. (Shayisano, zvinhu zvekumashanga) meaning just to fix them.'

Ruhanya said 'We celebrate differences and we must not shy away. I argue and insist here that the decision to recall the MPs and then fail to contest in those seats is misguided. The reforms you clamor for will not fall from heaven. What makes you think that ZANU PF will facilitate reforms simply because you have made a press statement.'

Ruhanya said there is also a fallacy that MDC-T is and will remain the only formidable party.

'I dispute and disagree,' he said. 'When political parties make their decisions, they are entitled to defend them but do not expect people to simply agree with in-congruent party positions.'

A social commentator, Kudakwashe Matibiri said he agrees with the party's dicision.

Joshua Mataire said In terms of principle the MDC T was right to recall them. 'However in terms of strategy they are wrong not to contest the by elections,' he said. 'That is a monumental blunder.'

Matibiri said he would rather prefer treating these two issues separately. That is, the recall of the 21 legislators in terms of Section 129(1) (k) of the Constitution and the decision to contest in the subsequent by elections.

'These 2 decisions, in my view must be dealt with independent of each other,' he said.