OUSTED former Zanu PF administration secretary and Headlands MP Didymus Mutasa yesterday claimed that the ruling party had unleashed State security agents in the constituency to intimidate his supporters ahead of a by-election scheduled for June 10 this year.
CLAYTON MASEKESA Own Correspondent
Mutasa, who was fired from Zanu PF and recalled from Parliament over alleged indiscipline after he filed a court challenge seeking nullification of the party’s December 2014 congress resolutions, has vowed to contest and defend his parliamentary seat on the ruling party’s ticket.
Zanu PF has shortlisted 15 candidates to contest primary elections to choose a suitable candidate for the by-elections.
“I have already said that I will contest the by-election under the real Zanu PF,” he said.
“I don’t know which other Zanu PF they are talking about.
“I am still a bona fide party member and l would contest any by-election in my constituency under the party’s banner.
“I have the people and I don’t want to let them down.”
- Chamisa under fire over US$120K donation
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Pension funds bet on Cabora Bassa oilfields
- Councils defy govt fire tender directive
Keep Reading
With no hint of irony, Mutasa claimed his campaigns were being frustrated by the State machinery.
“Already there is no fair play,” he said.
“The army and CIO (Central Intelligence Organisation) are already patrolling the area intimidating my people.
“Those illegal party candidates should campaign for themselves without misusing State institutions like the army, police, the CIO and other civil servants,” he said.
Mutasa cited a top Air Force of Zimbabwe official (name supplied), whom he claimed was leading the terror campaign against his supporters.
Before he crossed swords with Zanu PF, Mutasa was President Robert Mugabe’s close aide and at one time in charge of the CIO.
Zanu PF Manicaland acting provincial chair Samuel Undenge confirmed that 15 candidates were eyeing the Headlands seat.
These include former Manicaland governor Tinaye Chigudu, outspoken war veteran Nathaniel Mhiripiri, provincial youth league chairperson Dakarayi Mapuranga, Nation Madongorere, Christopher Chingosho, councillors Taurai Chiripamberi and Mathias Dakura, among others.
