Hosia Mviringi
HARARE – Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (Zanu PF) has been commended for allowing democratic processes to take centre stage at its primary elections held last week.
Observers said the ruling party exhibited mature internal democracy and transparency – which is the standard measure and yardstick for national politics.
In an interview, the winning Senatorial candidate for Mount Darwin Constituency Dr James Makamba said the exercise was a befitting example and template upon which national democratic processes can and should be anchored.
“I would like to commend the ZANU PF Party under the able and bold leadership of the ZANU PF First Secretary and President Cde Emmerson Mnangagwa for allowing and facilitating the flourishing of democracy within the party through the holding of primary elections.
“The process, which is a critical component of the party’s democratic culture facilitated the participation of the party’s grassroots in the selection of representatives in the forthcoming harmonised general elections, this exercise should be commended,” said Dr Makamba.
Dr Makamba said he contested not only what he wanted, but it was out of the confidence he had in the internal party processes.
“I took a chance and campaigned for a Senatorial position for Mount Darwin Constituency, not only because I wanted to, but because it was the right thing to do in answering a community called to serve, and also as a show of confidence and obedience to the party of our revolution.
“It was an answer to a call to serve and shape the community that defines who I am. I am particularly grateful to President Emmerson Mnangagwa for being the constitutionalist that he is. His commitment to the Constitution of the party and nation is unrivalled,” added Dr Makamba.
Internal party elections provide stepping stones and building blocks for personal and institutional growth.
They present an opportunity for every member to participate both as candidates and voters.
They also provide party members with an opportunity to learn, explore and grow politically.
Said Dr Makamba, “I believe in the spirit of the revolution, that it must continue to fly high and carry forward the ZANU PF flag to the next generations, guided by the patriotic mantra to protect and safeguard the gains and interests of the revolution.
“We are the people we have been waiting for to take steps forward and preach the gospel of nation building, brick upon brick, riding upon the mantra and philosophy ‘Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo’. This country can only be built by its people, and we are the people” –
