‘Fear, a key determinant of elections’- MKD
By Briggette Katiyo Magaya
HARARE – “In Rhodesia we lived in fear, today we still live in fear under this independent Zimbabwe,” said Dr Simba Makoni the President of Mavambo/Kusile/Dawn (MKD).
Addressing at a press conference in the capital today Dr Makoni said fear is likely going to determine voting patterns during the upcoming Zimbabwean elections.
He added that the country has so far failed to make meaningful progress in creating a conducive environment for free and fair elections as evidenced by the failure of the Government of National Unity (GNU) to achieve true national healing ahead of the polls.
Makoni described the inclusive government, “dismal and pathetic” in failing to end poverty, corruption and violence and meeting the expectations in the Global Political Agreement.
Makoni questioned the concept of “healing and reconciliation,” which he said is not practical to the situation in Zimbabwe as people are living in fear.
“If we had peace and reconciliation, we won’t be still living in fear five years after the formation of the Inclusive Government. I rank the area of healing and reconciliation as the single highest priority for the people,” said Makoni.
He went on to say that because there has been no truth and reconciliation initiatives, people are still living in fear of the horrendous past experiences of violence, intimidation and harassment.
The MKD leader said Jabulani Sibanda’s threats on television where he said, ‘if you vote for the wrong people…’ were likely to send shivers throughout the country, tilting votes in favor of Zanu PF.
Makoni reiterated that he is in favour for a “grand coalition for change”.
“l am ready to work with everyone, even Mugabe, if he would agree. Even members of ZANU PF or MDC who are willing to join this coalition are welcome,” he said.
Makoni poured cold water on those people celebrating the new constitution saying that the Constitution is meant to benefit political parties rather that the Zimbabwean people.
“If this constitution is effective why is Zanu PF and MDC-T saying, when we win the elections we will amend the COPAC constitution?”
Makoni said that MKD will take part in the elections expected this year if the conditions to hold these elections are free and fair. The MKD party participated in the 2008 harmonised elections in which they garnered 8% of the total votes.
