Zimbabwe: President to fund opposition politicians

Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has pledged to fully fund opposition members of the Political Actors Dialogue (POLAD).

President Mnangagwa met with POLAD leaders at his Sherwood Farm in Kwekwe on Sunday. The group comprises losing candidates from Zimbabwe’s 2018 election, including fringe party leaders such as MDC-T president Thokozani Khupe and Lucia Matibenga, president of the People’s Democratic Party. 

Addressing the group, Mnangagwa said he would make sure POLAD was fully funded and operational. 

"Initially, when we convened the platform we didn't have direct funding but now this must be a platform where the government must support because it (POLAD) brings harmony, peace and development to this country," he said.

"I am not averse to funding POLAD because it brings ideas to move the country forward. I have informed all ministers both in the economic and social services to avail themselves to you.

Speaking on behalf of POLAD, Lucia Matibenga said the platform was critical as it championed unity of purpose in Zimbabwe.

"There are those who say we are a choir and will not join us. I want to reiterate that we are not a choir because we are making contributions for national development.

"Each and everyone of us has a role to play no matter how small. Those outside must join others before it’s too late," she said.

Photo credit: Reuters | Siphiwe Sibeko