Cracks emerge in proposed Biti-Ncube coalition

By Blessing Zulu

Cracks are already emerging in a grand coalition that formations of the opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) led by Tendai Biti and Welshman Ncube are trying to put together ahead of the 2018 elections.

Sources say churches, political parties, civil society and other stakeholders are organising an all-stakeholders’ convention in two months which is touted as a precursor to a grand coalition of opposition parties. The National Constitution Assembly (NCA) party led by Professor Lovemore Madhuku that was in the conversation about an alliance, has distanced itself from the coalition citing ideological differences. 

But spokesman for the MDC Democratic Renewal team which has been involved in a turf war with former Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai says consultations have already begun. Mafume’s remarks were echoed by Nhlanhla Dube, spokesman of the MDC formation led by Ncube.

President of another opposition party Simba Makoni of the Mavambo Kusile Dawn AND Zapu leader, Dumiso Dabengwa, say they are for the idea of an alliance. Mafume though hinted that it will be difficult to work with Tsvangirai as he alleges that he has shown signs of democratic deficiencies.

Spokesman Douglas Mwonzora of the MDC formation led by Tsvangirai scoffed at the idea of excluding the former trade unionist. Political analyst Pedzisayi Ruhanya, director of the Zimbabwe Democracy Institute, said excluding anyone from a coalition is a no brainer.

The country’s next elections are in 2018 and with the opposition parties in disarray, political analysts say it will be difficult to see them oust President Robert Mugabe’s Zanu-PF party from power. Voice of America