Mwonzora moves to replace Mashakada as MDC Chair

MDC president Douglas Mwonzora has moved to replace party national chairperson Dr Tapiwa Mashakada after he was appointed to serve on the Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC).

Mashakada is expected to be sworn in as a Zimbabwe Media Commissioner on Friday, prompting his departure from the party leadership position.

Mwonzora told The Masvingo Mirror that the party was surprised by Mashakada's decision to accept the appointment, but respected his choice.

He said Mashakada's deputy, Voice Chinake, would automatically take over as national chairperson.

"He was still a serving member of the party when he was appointed. It was his choice because he applied and attended interviews," Mwonzora said.

"We were shocked by his move, but we will always respect his decision because he is the one who knows why he chose to do it," he said.

Mashakada told The Masvingo Mirror that vacancies on the commission had been advertised by Parliament last year and that he had applied before attending interviews in October alongside 49 other candidates.

He said the selection process was conducted publicly and that he emerged successful.

"National duty does not look at party lines, especially when it comes to independent commissions," Mashakada said.

He said he would relinquish his party position as required by the Constitution, while acknowledging that the MDC had the right to appoint his replacement.

Responding to criticism that accepting the appointment amounted to selling out, Mashakada said his qualifications made him suitable for the position.

"I am learned and qualified for this position. Those who think that accepting a national duty assignment means selling out are not looking at things correctly," he said.

Mashakada is a former Minister of Economic Planning and Investment Promotion who served during Zimbabwe's 2009-2013 Government of National Unity.