Mujuru told to 'stand up to tyranny'

Ousted former VP Joice Mujuru's supporters have thrown down the gauntlet by urging her to "stand up to tyranny", as many have sought to rally the ex-deputy to President Robert Mugabe to challenge the 91-year-old.

Using the platform or occasion of her 60th birthday today, a group calling itself the "original Zanu-PF" and using the People First slogan- yesterday virtually thrust her at the centre of their strategy to fight for a better Zimbabwe amid a deepening socio-economic crises.

Mujuru is reportedly spending her birthday at her farm in Beatrice.

In a statement the group said the occasion of her birthday coincides with a new chapter in the political history of our beloved Zimbabwe in the quest for true democracy and freedom.

The backers in the statement to congratulate Mujuru on turning 60 years today have chosen to address her as Vice-President of the original Zanu-PF, a move likely to heighten tension between her new political outfight Zanu People First and President Robert Mugabe's Zanu PF.

The supporters, most of whom have chosen to remain anonymous, but label themselves the "original Zanu-PF", said in the statement: "Our Independence Day and true independence are around the corner. As you know, the road to true democracy will always be fraught with trials and tribulations."

They added: "Thank you for reminding us of the original ideals of the liberation struggle, for being a true OG, and wanting to secure a better future for us all despite the present temporary circumstances. Your fight is our fight."

Mujuru, who until last December had served as President Mugabe's deputy both in government and party since 2004, was booted out of the party this month on charges of fanning factionalism and plotting to unseat the veteran leader.