MDC-T leader Douglas Mwonzora reacted strongly to the High Court’s ruling to nullify the party’s 2022 congress, claiming Zanu PF orchestrated the decision to silence opposition to Mnangagwa’s 2030 agenda. Justice Zhou directed Mwonzora to resign and arrange a new congress in six months due to irregularities. Mwonzora reaffirmed his commitment to uphold the Constitution and prepare for a leadership challenge in the upcoming congress.
Douglas Mwonzora, the president of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC-T), expressed his frustration after the High Court annulled the party’s 2022 ordinary congress. He alleges that the ruling was influenced by Zanu PF to undermine his efforts against President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s agenda, which aims to extend his presidency beyond the constitutional two terms ending in 2028.
Justice Hapias Zhou of the High Court mandated Mwonzora’s resignation and ordered a fresh congress within six months due to irregularities identified in the 2022 MDC-T Extraordinary Congress that elevated him to leadership. In response, Mwonzora criticized Zanu PF, affirming his commitment to oppose the 2030 agenda, declaring that his party will not be intimidated in its fight for constitutional integrity.
Mwonzora emphasized the importance of the 2013 Constitution, citing that the citizens of Zimbabwe played a significant role in its creation and should be respected. He reiterated that the constitution mandates a maximum of ten years for a president, urging Mnangagwa to adhere to this guideline and step down after his term in 2028.
The MDC-T president noted that his party is forming coalitions with other progressive groups, including political entities, religious organizations, civil society, and war veterans, to challenge Mnangagwa’s intentions of becoming a life president. He expressed readiness to defend his leadership position in any future congress against challengers, reiterating confidence in a favorable outcome.
Mwonzora recalled his previous victory at the 2020 extraordinary congress, where he received overwhelming support against his opponents. The ruling that nullified the 2022 congress stemmed from complaints about compliance with the party’s constitution, resulting in a directive for a national congress under an independent commission within the stipulated period.
In conclusion, Douglas Mwonzora remains resolute in his opposition to President Mnangagwa’s 2030 agenda, citing a recent court ruling that nullified the MDC-T’s 2022 congress as a politically motivated act by Zanu PF. He emphasizes the democratic principles enshrined in the 2013 Constitution and his willingness to engage in a new congress to reaffirm his leadership. The MDC-T aims to solidify alliances with various stakeholders to counteract perceived threats to constitutional governance in Zimbabwe.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
