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Morgan Tsvangirai

Nduduzo Tshuma Senior Political Reporter
MDC-T leader Morgan Tsvangirai on Saturday spelled out the party’s template for those interested in taking up positions in the embattled organisation.This left out in the cold Deputy Bulawayo Mayor Gift Banda who was among those eyeing the provincial chair’s position in the city.

Tsvangirai was in Bulawayo for what officials said was a routine tour but party insiders said was a fire-fighting mission to try and mend widening divisions, particularly over the issue of the position of provincial chairperson.

During the meeting, Tsvangirai is said to have made it clear that those interested in the post chairperson should have served the party for at least five years.  There has been debate on the issue of the chairperson’s post following the recent resignation of Gorden Moyo.

MDC-T acting Bulawayo provincial chairperson Dorcas Sibanda, Bulawayo East legislator Thabitha Khumalo and Senator Matson Hlalo are reportedly interested in taking up the post while Banda was considered a dark horse.

However, there was always a feeling among some party members even before Tsvangirai’s remarks that Banda, a reported ally of MDC-T vice-president Thokozani Khupe and national chairman Lovemore Moyo, was not eligible to contest for the post as he has not served the party for five years.

Sibanda confirmed that Tsvangirai stated that candidates for the provincial chairperson’s post should have served the party for at least five years.

“That was normal that when we are going for congress we look at the constitution. The leadership was merely stating a template for positions that is supported by the constitution,” said Sibanda.

“The leadership was not here to block anyone from any position but to explain the requirements for one to take part in the election of posts. It’s what they have been doing countrywide.”

However, sources alleged that Banda tried to seek audience with Tsvangirai after the meeting but was denied access.

“Tsvangirai was here to clear confusion in the province especially the issue of the chairperson that was threatening to tear the party apart. He had to come and address the matter urgently,” said a party insider.

“Banda has been left in the cold because he was hoping that Tsvangirai would rescue him. He even followed Tsvangirai to a lodge he was booked in an effort to present his case but was denied access to see him.”

Efforts to reach Banda failed yesterday.

Meanwhile, the Professor Welshman Ncube led MDC yesterday accused Tsvangirai of failing to take responsibility for his political failures over reports that the former Prime Minister said at the weekend that he would not forgive Prof Ncube for the 2005 split of the party.

MDC national spokesperson Nhlanhla Dube said Tsvangirai’s statements had the makings of “a political loser going insane”.

“Telling lies is not going to make Morgan Tsvangirai politically handsome. The political mirror does not lie,” said Dube.