HARARE - Lovemore Madhuku’s ship is sinking before it could navigate the tumultuous waters of Zimbabwean politics.
Nursing bruises from the by-election drubbing at the hands of Zanu PF, National Constituency Assembly (NCA) has been hit by desertions of key members.
Information director Blessing Vava and Takura Zhangazha left the party early this week citing differences over the NCA’s participation in the by-elections.
Vava said he resigned from the party due to ideological differences.
He said he has no intention to join any political party.
“We differed ideologically and I left,” Vava said.
“Right now I am part of the Committee of the People’s Charter — a Zimbabwean political, economic, social and democratic accountability mechanism established in the interests of the people of Zimbabwe.”
Job Sikhala has also jumped ship. Sikhala declined to comment and referred questions to the party spokesperson. Insiders said the party could see more desertions.
Madock Chivasa, the NCA spokesperson, denied that his party was sinking.
“There is no crisis to talk about,” Chivasa said.
“People are allowed to resign from a democratic movement. But I must say, we have lots of members who believe in the cause of NCA. More people have shown desire to join our party and so I think all is well.”
NCA performed dismally in the council by-elections held last weekend.
In Mbare ward 12, Maureen Nyemba of Zanu PF polled 843 votes, while Albert Muponda of the MDC garnered 835, with Takura Gadzira of NCA polling 76, while independent candidate Jack Ethen Muzanenhamo polled 26 votes.
Zanu PF retained ward 32 in Zaka when Togarepi Toruvanda romped to victory with 861 votes against the 107 garnered by Elias Mutava of MDC, while Enock Chikamhi of NCA polled 62 votes.
In Karoi ward 10, Zanu PF’s Fortunate Madamombe garnered 725 votes against Solomon Chiwenga Musekiwa of the MDC’s 226.