Mujuru reaches out to Tsvangirai

Concerned by the simmering tension within some ranks of the opposition, which has the potential of getting in the way of the mooted grand coalition, former vice president and now ZPF leader Joice Mujuru is doubling her efforts to keep relations with former prime minister Morgan Tsvangirai warm.

Sources said that Mujuru had become acutely aware of heightened Zanu-PF machinations to divide the opposition and disorient their planned alliance, which has spooked the ruling party, ahead of the eagerly anticipated 2018 national elections.

Both MDC and ZPF officials have variously made divisive statement about who should lead the coalition.

A top Mujuru top aide, Dzikamai Mavhaire last week ascribed the MDC-T President as an idiot who cannot lead the grand coalition of opposition parties.

Addressing a ZimPF rally in Gutu West, ZimPF national co-ordinator, 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.

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

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