Madhuku says Makoni’s new political party will struggle for support

By Lance Guma
15 January 2008

A new political party, reportedly led by former Finance Minister Simba Makoni, has been described as a grouping of ‘legendary cowards.’ The chairperson of the National Constitutional Assembly Lovemore Madhuku said this when he told Reuter’s news agency that some of the names linked with the new party include people who lack the courage to challenge Mugabe. So far those involved have not come out openly, despite the independent media covering developments. Madhuku said Makoni and his group did not have support within Zanu PF grassroot structures and would struggle to unseat Mugabe.

Some reports suggest the new party will be called the Patriotic Front (derived from the PF in Zanu PF) and is a pet project of retired army general Solomon Mujuru. So far it’s alleged the entire Zanu PF Mashonaland East provincial executive is firmly behind the breakaway party, with Governor Ray Kaukonde leading the charge. The governor, who is a businessman and is said to be feeling the effects of the economic collapse, has in the past called for a change of direction within Zanu PF. Reports say this has led Mugabe to question Kaukonde’s loyalty to the party.

Other reports suggest this new party is trying to strike a deal with the MDC and under proposals that are allegedly being discussed, the MDC will focus on trying to win urban constituencies in the coming elections. This would leave Makoni’s party to wrestle control from Mugabe in the rural areas. But an MDC official on Tuesday said no contact had been made with the Makoni group. He added that if contact was ever made they would not automatically rule out the possibility of a pact.