MDC factions intensify battle over party properties

Rival factions within the fractured Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) have reignited hostilities over control of the party's properties, chief among them the iconic Morgan Richard Tsvangirai (MRT) House in Harare.

The building, formerly known as Harvest House, has long been the symbolic heart of the opposition movement. However, since the death of MDC founding leader Morgan Tsvangirai in 2018, it has become the epicentre of bitter disputes among his successors.

Former senior party figures including Thokozani Khupe, Douglas Mwonzora, Nelson Chamisa, Elias Mudzuri and Morgan Komichi have all, at various times, clashed over its control. Some leaders have even been physically assaulted by youths aligned to rival factions in attempts to take over the premises.

The latest standoff comes as the Mwonzora-led MDC youth assembly accused Mudzuri of plotting a violent takeover of MRT House, alleging his faction had mobilised hired thugs to forcibly occupy the headquarters.

"It has come to our attention that some hired thugs from Elias Mudzuri's small camp want to come and occupy the MDC headquarters violently," read a statement from the youth assembly.

The group also cited a recent High Court ruling that has since been appealed, arguing the pending Supreme Court determination suspends its enforcement.

But Mudzuri has rubbished the claims, calling them baseless and an attempt by Mwonzora to divert attention from his leadership struggles.

"He is just filling the air with nonsense. We are not fighting over a dead party. We should be rebuilding," said Mudzuri.

He insisted that MRT House and other party properties belong to MDC members and not individuals, adding that any leadership changes should reflect the collective will of party supporters.

Meanwhile, MDC youth chairperson Albert Chidakwa defended Mwonzora's leadership, saying his presidency remains valid and the High Court never nullified it.

"The High Court judgment has been appealed and is awaiting determination. Its effect is suspended. Mwonzora remains the duly elected president," said Chidakwa.

He also warned of external forces allegedly sponsoring violence within the party, accusing "treacherous elements" of trying to seize control through undemocratic means.

In a show of support, the Chitungwiza provincial youth assembly issued a militant statement vowing to defend the party's leadership and its headquarters.

"We pledge to defend our party, our president and our party citadel with the last breath and blood against those who seek to destroy our party," said provincial youth treasurer general Tonderai Makuyana.

Once a powerful opposition bloc that came close to unseating Zanu-PF, the MDC has since been crippled by relentless infighting and leadership wrangles, leaving its members disillusioned and the party a shadow of its former self.