National student body pledge support for Save Zimbabwe Campaign
By Lance Guma
02 August 2007.

Instead of celebrating the first anniversary of the Save Zimbabwe Campaign on the 29th July, Zimbabweans were rocked this week by the withdrawal of the Mutambara MDC from the platform. The party cited what they felt was bias for Morgan Tsvangirai and his party. As the dust settles on that episode the National Students Union (ZINASU) has moved to re-affirm its support for the coalition. Speaking on our Behind the Headlines programme, Promise Mkwananzi spoke of the need to unite all progressive forces ‘to mount a spirited campaign against the ills and misdeeds of an illegitimate and brutal Zanu PF government.’ He said students believe the Save Zimbabwe coalition is the only viable option for people to articulate their demands.

Mkwananzi who sits on the general council of the group said at no point was it ever agreed that the different groups would support a particular individual’s aspirations. He said ‘It is unfortunate and sad that they have pulled out (Mutambara MDC),’ but that ‘there was a general understanding we would promote the concept of one candidate for the forthcoming 2008 elections.’ He said those remaining in the grouping will adhere to the memorandum of agreement drawn up. Mkwananzi said it would have been ideal to have everyone on board but that even after the withdrawal, the Save Zimbabwe Campaign ‘had enough manpower and stamina to carry the struggle for Zimbabweans.’

Meanwhile Pius Wakatama, a spokesman for the Christian Alliance which launched and coordinates the campaign, said ‘it was business as usual,’ and they would continue in their efforts to liberate Zimbabweans. He told journalists it was unfortunate Mutambara announced his decision to the media without discussing his concerns with them. Only recently members of the coalition, including Tsvangirai, Mutambara, Lovemore Madhuku (NCA) and Paul Siwela (ZAPU) among others, embarked on a tour of European capitals to lobby for more pressure on Mugabe’s regime. A prayer rally by the coalition in March was brutally crushed by police with two activists, including Gift Tandare, being killed by police.
As elections scheduled for 2008 draw nearer commentators are urging groups in and outside Zimbabwe to forge common platforms to try and work together. In the United Kingdom, the Zimbabwe Action Group led by Robert Gonouya has already drawn up a concept paper, listing terms of reference for a coalition that will unite pressure groups there. ‘It is clear that unless we become more adroit and all progressive forces unite, our effectiveness will always be limited. The challenges we face as a people demand that we put the need to effect positive change in our circumstances above personal interests and pride,’ Gonouya said. ‘There is no room for tribal prejudices, bickering or ambivalence. The advantages of us working closely together are obvious,’ he added.

NB: The full interview with Promise Mkwananzi can be heard on our Behind the Headlines programme, Thursday and will also be available on archives after broadcast.