Mudzuri launches MDC-T presidential bid, says he will floor Zanu PF if given the chance
MDC-T deputy chair Elias Mudzuri is confident of defeating Zanu PF if he is elected president of the party at the impending extraordinary congress, he announced on Friday.
Mudzuri made the announcement at a press briefing in Harare and is set to face MDC-T interim President Thokozani Khupe.
MDC–T chairman Morgen Komichi and secretary general and Douglas Mwonzora are said to also be vying for the top post.
The extraordinary congress has been set for December to elect the substantive President following the death of founding leader Morgan Tsvangirai in February 2018.
It follows a March 31 Supreme Court ruling which stated that Nelson Chamisa’s ascendancy to power had been in breach of the party’s constitution and there was need for an extraordinary congress.
“I am offering my candidature for the MDC T at the impending MDC T extraordinary congress,” Mudzuri said.
“…If elected as MDC-T president, I will bring back all those that have walked away or chased away from the MDC-T and form a united party to challenge Zanu PF in 2023. We need to focus more on the 2023 general elections than infighting in MDC-T,” Mudzuri he continued.
“I will spend time reflecting on developments in my party. I am offering my candidature and will greatly serve and bring change in the party and country.”
Mudzuri said the opposition needed to engage the military in order to create a level playing field.
It could prove to be an uphill task as the ruling party and the military appear to have a deep-seated relationship.
“Once we engage and talk, and there is trust between the military and the political groupings, it is easier to take power,” said Mudzuri.
“As you know, you cannot take power without the consent of the military, and right now we have a military government whether you like it or not. We have to negotiate power with the powers that be. Even if you have almost 100 percent votes, you may not get power.”
