Moses Matenga
HARARE – Former Finance Minister and MDC Alliance partner, Tendai Biti, used a rare occasion, the live broadcast of the MDC Alliance manifesto, to refer to Zanu PF as “dogs”, forcing Mabvuku-Tafara Member of Parliament James Maridadi to caution him.
For the first time, state broadcaster, ZBC beamed live the opposition party policy launch.
In his address, Biti, who is known for using strong and sometimes provocative words, was at it again when he said his party was going to remove“humbwa hweZanu PF”.
“Toda kubvisa humbwa hweZanu PF…,” Biti thundered.
This did not go down well with Maridadi, the Master of Ceremonies who said it was not necessary for Biti to use strong language, especially that the launch was live on television.
“Mr President, allow me to say we are being covered live by ZBC and we are being watched live at home and there is live streaming. I was listening as Hon Biti was speaking and I know that when he speaks, he uses very strong language at times, that is his nature we will not take away that from him,” he said.
“I am to ask Dr Mashakada that when he speaks, please let us not use strong language since people are watching from home, so I am going to ask no to strong language,” he added.
For the first time, the launch was live on television, an indication, observers said was a positive step for the country.
In his address, MDC Alliance presidential candidate Nelson Chamisa said he was going to change the country’s name to Great Zimbabwe adding that he will do away with names of provinces that divide people along tribal lines.
He said the launch of his policy document will deliver the people of Zimbabwe from past politics and politics of old ideas.
On Ministers, he said he will cut his government to only 15.
“We are going to have only 15 Ministers even fewer than that. Our pursuit is not going to be power or positions.”
He said he was not worried about what people think on him not able to take over even after winning saying God was in control and Zimbabwe’s army was professional and will let him take over.
“I am not worried; I have been told that if you win, the army will not let you take over. I am not worried, our military is professional. Some say you are a young man. Yes. laborious task of government needs young men and also God is in it.”
