SW Radio Africa news - The Independent Voice of Zimbabwe
The MDC-T has been criticized for “confusing their supporters” by sending mixed messages, at a time when strong leadership is required. This follows the party’s decision to boycott the opening of parliament next week. The opening session will be addressed by Robert Mugabe and the MDC-T insist that their participation would be tantamount to legitimizing an “illegal” leader who “stole the election” through rigging. But MDC-T legislators will attend the swearing in ceremony on Tuesday. Elected MDC-T officials will also participate in parliamentary and local government activities as part of government. MDC-T spokesperson Douglas Mwonzora is quoted as saying: “Attending the official opening ceremony and listening to the speech is tantamount to legitimising the manner Mugabe was elected, yet we know the election was stolen.” But political commentator Lameck Mahachi blasted the MDC-T, saying they were “flip-flopping” and changing colours “like a chameleon”. Mahachi explained that the decision to boycott should apply not only to parliament but to participation in government as well.“Mugabe is the head of government and if he is illegal then government is illegal. What applies to one must also apply to the other. Participation in government also legitimizes Mugabe’s electoral victory,” Mahachi fumed. He added: “They are confusing their supporters and it seems that they don’t know what to do. It is a shame that there is no other viable opposition in Zimbabwe. The MDC-T would perish.” We were unable to contact the MDC-T for comment. According to the independent Newsday newspaper, Innocent Gonese will continue his role as the MDC-T chief whip in parliament, but the party said they will not be fielding any candidates for Speaker of the House of Assembly and Senate President.