Chaos seems to be reigning in the country’s biggest opposition party, the MDC-T as all three of the party’s vice presidents claim to be in charge. Thokozani Khupe, Elias Mudzuri and Nelson Chamisa have all claimed to be the rightful acting president in the absence of veteran party leader Morgan Tsvangirai who is undergoing treatment in South Africa. All three are utilising social media to stake their claims
Here are the various claims:
I had the privilege of meeting President Tsvangirai. Meeting him again today.I am still the Acting President until his return. Please stay focused on strengthening the party and winning elections. Ignore falsehoods. Victory is certain.
— Elias Mudzuri (@EngMudzuri) February 9, 2018
In my capacity as the Acting President of the people’s party of excellence,I’ve pressed the reset button as we set the party 4 election preparedness,policy articulation & dealing with all hygiene issues.I’ve just met with parly caucus & all the 12 provinces.We’re clear & focused!
— nelson chamisa (@nelsonchamisa) February 9, 2018
4/6 I was MDC-T A/President for months in 2008 on the basis of our constitution which has remained unchanged & clear on the roles of elected officers of congress. It does not give any extensive powers to any one office bearer such that without them the party is dysfunctional.
— Dr Thokozani Khupe (@DrThoko_Khupe) February 7, 2018
Party spokesperson Obert Gutu and presidential spokesperson Luke Tamborinyoka have also said contrasting statements regarding the leadership of the party, although, both claim they will be vindicated in future.
Said Gutu:
I have just been authoritatively advised that Hon.Elias Mudzuri is still the Acting President of the MDC – T
— Obert Gutu (@GutuObert) February 8, 2018
The truth shall,as usual,set me free.I'm not captured.I always stick to principles.I hereby stand by and reiterate what I posted earlier on this platform.
I have got absolutely nothing to fear.— Obert Gutu (@GutuObert) February 8, 2018
While Tamborinyoka said:
President Tsvangirai appoints VP Chamisa as acting President
President Morgan Tsvangirai has with effect from… https://t.co/HSU7XgeBP8
— Luke Tamborinyoka (@luke_tambo) February 7, 2018
History will vindicate me.
— Luke Tamborinyoka (@luke_tambo) February 9, 2018
Unity at last! This will surely win the election….for anyone else!
unity papi pacho nhai? such contradiction…
Oh, God have mercy. What a shambles!