Zanu PF condemn MDC-T referendum campaign

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Goodwills Masimirembwa

ZANU PF loyalists have condemned the launch of the referendum campaign by the MDC-T which seeks to lure Zimbabweans to vote ‘YES’ in the referendum.

The campaign dubbed, ‘my voice is: my vote is yes’ was launched in Harare by MDC-T leader, Mr Morgan Tsvangirai.

On the issue of citizenship, Mr Tsvangirai said no one should be called an alien in Zimbabwe, adding that all people who were born in Zimbabwe and left the country should be recognised as Zimbabwean nationals.

Zanu PF legislator, Joel Biggie Matiza, condemned the launch saying it is a reflection of how the MDC-T is aligned to its western pay masters.

Another analyst, Mr Godwills Masimirembwa also condemned the launch saying the draft constitution does not reflect the will of the people as there is no agreement on the concept of devolution and the granting of rights to homosexuals.

Zanu PF has proposed some amendments to the draft constitution which will see the will of the people being accommodated before the referendum is held.

The revolutionary party, Zanu PF, has vowed to push for a ‘NO’ vote campaign if the issues it raised are not addressed.

MDC-T leader, Morgan Tsvangirai, will Saturday launch a ‘Vote Yes’ campaign for the draft new constitution although a planned referendum remains uncertain as the GPA parties bicker over the document.

“The campaign is meant to sensitise, inform, educate and engage the people of Zimbabwe on the new constitution,” the party said in a statement Friday, adding the campaign launch would be held at The Harare Show Grounds.

The MDC-T has since endorsed the draft which was released by COPAC in July but the process has stalled over major amendments proposed by Zanu PF which have been rejected by the MDC formations.

“The launch comes at a time when Zanu PF is dithering and trying to stop the Constitution making process, by bringing a totally new draft constitution, which disregards the people’s views,” the MDC-T said.

Zanu PF claims the COPAC document ignored views contributed by members of the public during the national outreach programme and wants GPA principals to discuss its amendments which the party claims align the draft with the wishes of the people.

The MDC parties have urged the regional SADC grouping to intervene and Tanzania President Jakaya Kikwete, the block’s Troika on politics, defence and security would discuss the stalemate at a meeting scheduled for next early next month.

The draft charter was expected to be put to a referendum leading to fresh polls next year for a substantive government.