MDC official boycotts disciplinary hearing

OUTSPOKEN suspended MDC chairperson for Matabeleland South Petros Mukwena on Friday refused to attend a disciplinary hearing alleging that the committee hearing his case was biased.

Mukwena is accused of insulting MDC secretary-general Priscilla Misihairabwi-Mushonga in the run-up to July 31 elections.

"I did not attend that hearing by that kangaroo court. Whatever they were discussing was predetermined" he said.

"Whatever judgment they reached is null and void for me and the province will not accept it.

"They are using draconian laws which are similar to Public Order and Security Act and Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act to persecute genuine dissenting voices.

"If they decide to fire me, so be it. I won't shed a tear, but the leadership should know that they are not democratic and are violating almost every part of our constitution."

MDC spokesperson Nhlanhla Dube said he was not aware if the hearing had gone ahead.

The party's deputy disciplinary committee chairperson Pharaoh Jele, a former football referee and administrator, was expected to chair the meeting.

But sources said the panel was in a quandary on what action to take following Mukwena's no-show.
"There was confusion when Mukwena did not show up. Some were of the opinion that he be fired, but caution was taken" the source said.

"It's not clear which decision was taken".

Mukwena has been leading calls for Misihairabwi-Mushonga to be recalled from the National Assembly, arguing that her nomination was irregular.