TEN dissatisfied outgoing legislators from the MDC-Alliance have announced their defection to the ruling party, Zanu PF. The legislators claim that their decision to switch parties stems from their dissatisfaction with the leadership of opposition leader Douglas Mwonzora.
During a press conference, four of the ten proportional representation MPs, led by Lindiwe Maphosa from Matabeleland province, met with Zanu PF Secretary General Obert Mpofu and national political commissar Mike Bimha on Tuesday.
Maphosa boldly accused Mwonzora of undermining the MDC-Alliance party through his ineffective leadership qualities. One of the specific grievances mentioned was Mwonzora’s alleged failure to pay the nomination court fees for his MPs, which has had negative consequences for the party.
The defection of these ten legislators represents a significant blow to the MDC-Alliance and highlights internal dissent within the party. It raises questions about the party’s ability to maintain unity and effectively challenge the ruling Zanu PF party.
The move also brings attention to the broader dynamics of Zimbabwean politics, where shifting alliances and disagreements within opposition parties can have a significant impact on the political landscape. The defection of these legislators underscores the challenges faced by opposition parties in maintaining cohesion and addressing concerns related to leadership and party unity.