Tsvangirai insists mass protests on

Tsvangirai insists mass protests on

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By Staff Reporter

MORGAN Tsvangirai, leader of a faction of Zimbabwe's opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) insists his plans for mass anti-government protests are not stillborn.

The former trade unionist has been under pressure to live up to his promise made in March that he would initiate “a cold winter of discontent".

Political commentators took his statements to mean the planned protests would fall within Zimbabwe's winter season, which is about to end.

However, Tsvangirai's supporters have insisted the reference to winter was just a euphemism.

Addressing MDC provincial leaders this week, Tsvangirai said: “As leaders in your provinces, you are aware that we are now putting final touches to our resistance programme. I am happy to note that we are on course.

"Your challenge is ensure that the minimum numbers we expect to come out are ready. Strengthen the structures right to the last hamlet and growth point.

"Knit-up the weak ends and plug up possible fissures. Assure the local leaders that the nation is fully behind them in this endeavor."

He added: “As we discuss these crucial matters, let us be frank and open about our state of preparedness in order to make an informed decision on the timing of the action."

The MDC, previously seen as the biggest threat to President Robert Mugabe's 26-year rule, now lies divided with two leaders and competing structures. Former university student leader, Arthur Mutambara, now leads the other faction.

Last week, an MP aligned to Mutambara was attacked by Tsvangirai's supporters in the most serious intra-party violence since the party split last year. Timothy Mubawu, the MDC legislator for Mabvuku who is in Tsvangirai's camp has been arrested for providing funds to a group of youths who attacked the country's only white legislator, Trudy Stevenson.

Tsvangirai has dismissed the attack as the work of infiltrators.

He said: “Zanu PF and Mugabe must explain how a person can be attacked by a mob at a meeting they have sanctioned and at which they are present. As provincial chairpersons, you must watch out for dangerous political games designed to tie us and force us to focus internally."
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