MDC-T boycotts elections

THE Movement for Democratic Change (MDC-T) will not participate in the in the forthcoming by-elections occasioned by the expulsion from its ranks of 14 elected Members of Parliament from the August house.

The expulsion followed after the party’s highest decision making organ ruled against it in line with its congress resolution of not participating in any elections until electoral reforms are put in place.

The National Council made the decision in a crunch meeting at Harvest House, the party’s national headquarters in Harare on April 10.

Since the expulsion of the MPs last month, there has been a lot of confusion as to whether or not the party would maintain its congress resolution.

MDC-T secretary general, Douglas Mwonzora, confirmed the latest development in an exclusive interview with the Financial Gazette soon after the lengthy meeting.

“The National Council ruled that no reform, no election. So the MDC will not be participating in those elections,” he said.

Despite relentless calls for electoral reforms from the opposition, the ruling party, ZANU-PF, has insisted that Zimbabwe’s voting process is fair and credible, dismissing the opposition’s move as a publicity stunt. While the opposition has made similar claims in past elections, this is the first time they have resorted to boycotting the poll.

ZANU-PF, will greet the news with enthusiasm given that its main electoral challenger has opted out of the race.