Mthwakazi gears for 2018 elections

REGIONAL opposition party, Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP) has set its sights on taking part in next year's general elections.

The MRP has never participated in any election since its formation, but last week, its officials said they were ready to contest in the next elections – in Matabeleland and Midlands only.

Party leader, Mqondisi Moyo, said contesting the polls will help raise the party's profile and the "restoration agenda".

"Our manifesto will be published any time from now so that people will be familiar with it. The executive plans to visit all its Diaspora structures this year to explain the party's vision and policies ahead of elections," he said.

"This, for us, is like a mini-referendum, because it will inform our work towards restoration of our state."

Moyo said the party's national executive council will lead its campaign, while the selection of parliamentary candidates has also started.

The MRP joins the recently launched Moses Mzila-Ndlovu-led Alliance for National Salvation, which has also said it will field candidates only in Midlands and Matabeleland.

"The international lobby committee will be formed later this year and is set to start work. As we expect our petition to be ready by then. Transparency is our motto and we have zero tolerance for corruption," he said.

"All MRP members must stay away from corruption of whatever form or magnitude, as we strive for a better Mthwakazi."

The MRP is pushing for a separate Matabeleland state as an answer to the region's underdevelopment and marginalisation characterised by, among others, the continued closure of industries.