'Tsvangirai can't lead Zimbabwe, he did not fight in the liberation struggle'

THE opposition Zimbabwe People First (ZimPF) at the weekend described its leader, Joice Mujuru, as the most suitable candidate to lead the proposed coalition of opposition parties, arguing she had the requisite political stamina to challenge President Robert Mugabe in the 2018 presidential election.

Addressing a ZimPF rally in Gutu West, ZimPF national co-ordinator, Dzikamai Mavhaire declared it was now time for a female president to take over the reins of power.

"Mugabe has said (MDC-T leader Morgan) Tsvangirai can't lead because he did not fight in the liberation struggle, now Mujuru is here. He said Tsvangirai is not educated, Mujuru has a doctorate … Let's have a woman for a change, support one of your own. We (men) are backing you for a change," he said.

Mujuru has also warmed up to the idea of leading the coalition although the MDC-T strongly believes Tsvangirai, has what it takes to steward the project.

Last week, MDC-T vice-president, Nelson Chamisa told his party supporters in Chipinge that Tsvangirai was the natural candidate to lead the proposed coalition because of his bravery to face off Mugabe.

"Tsvangirai has travelled for 17 years with the people and has led the fight against corruption, poverty and has had the clout to defeat Mugabe in successive elections and is, therefore, a natural leader to lead the coalition," he said.

"When we group to share a plate of sadza, let's know that we have the first and last born and in our culture the first born is given the chance to take the first bite, Tsvangirai is the first born."

MDC-T secretary-general, Douglas Mwonzora said it was perfectly normal for Tsvangirai to lead the coalition.

"It is perfectly normal for the MDC-T top leadership to push for Tsvangirai to lead the coalition, we have 1 000 reasons why Tsvangirai should lead and we have to be convinced otherwise. We have not stopped anyone from promoting their candidate," he said.

Tsvangirai has preferred to be diplomatic, saying the leadership of the coalition should be decided by the people and not negotiated at boardroom levels.