Details emerge on Sikhala’s “demotion”
Nelson Chamisa, leader of opposition MDC Alliance reportedly “demoted” the party’s vice-chairman, Job Sikhala, for his involvement in the formation of a party that was destined to split the MDC Alliance vote.
Chamisa earlier this month made new appointments to key positions in the party with Sesel Zvidzai being appointed Co-Vice-Chairperson, a move viewed by some as a demotion to Sikhala.
An unnamed party insider told Bulawayo24 that Sikhala was the brains behind the formation of Patriotic Zimbabweans which is fronted by Charles Mutama, a US-based former MDC Alliance activist. Added the source:
Mutama is very close to Job and he supported him during his trials. They were tortured by the security agents together. President vakabata ndere ndere yekuti Sikhala ndiye muridzi wechinhu cha Mutama (Patriotic Zimbabweans party).
Job wanted Mutama to set up structures and then invite him to lead the structured party. He also wanted Mutama to test the acceptability of the new party on the ground. Unfortunately, it did not get much traction needed to split the party votes and this is the reason why Job remained in the cocoon. Such a person can never be trusted. He is actually in the departure lounge.
The source said Chamisa also blamed Sikhala for being inactive in the wake of the absence of the national chairperson Tabitha Khumalo who has not been feeling well for some time.
Meanwhile, there are reports suggesting that the other camp intends to take Chamisa to court over the violation of the party constitution.
More: Bulawayo24