Tsvangirai never offered to step down

By Never Kadungure | Nehanda Politics |

HARARE – A spokesman for Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) leader Morgan Tsvangirai has dismissed as “beerhall talk” claims that the former trade unionist considered stepping down soon after disputed polls in Zimbabwe over two months ago that saw President Robert Mugabe romp to victory.

“He has never wanted to run away from his mandate given to him by the people at the congress in 2011,” Luke Tamborinyoka said.

“Being the democrat he is, he has said leadership renewal is not a sacred issue nor taboo. However, such an issue should be done through successive national council meetings. Be that as it may, it is true that he has called for debate on the succession issue but at the right platforms.”

Tamborinyoka said the post-election narrative was not about removing Tsvangirai, but “appreciating how Mugabe rigged elections. The issue of leadership renewal is something that should come from the people, and only debates at beer binges are suggesting that Tsvangirai should go,” he said.

“The post-election narrative is how Zanu PF stole this election and not leadership renewal. But people are free to talk, that is why no one has disappeared after saying Tsvangirai should go.”

Former white commercial farmers turned legislators Roy Bennett and Ian Kay have been the only senior party leaders to openly call for Tsvangirai to step down after successive controversial election defeats to Zanu PF. Kay has since been suspended by the Mashonaland East province pending a hearing.