THE transformation of the National Constitutional Assembly (NCA) into a political party should not be underestimated as it has potential to become a strong opposition force to the Zanu PF-led government, political analysts have said.
BY WONAI MASVINGISE
Over the weekend, the Lovemore Madhuku-led NCA transformed into a fully-fledged political party.
In an interview with NewsDay, University of Zimbabwe political scientist Charity Manyeruke said Madhuku’s potential as a political figure should not be ignored.
“The newly-formed party should work hard to challenge Zanu PF support and power. The political arena is not for dull people. Professor Madhuku’s potential should not be underestimated,” Manyeruke said.
Manyeruke said the NCA’s move to enter the political arena was welcome because it offered the electorate an alternative to the existing opposition parties.
“NGOs can evolve to (become) political parties when they now seek political power. So, NCA is now seeking power. They now want to head government.
“This is a welcome move because it provides new and better energy among opposition parties.
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“The opposition was now stuck with the MDC-T, but now they have a better alternative. More of such political parties are needed to foster good competition among political parties,” Manyeruke said.
Political analyst Ibbo Mandaza shared Manyeruke’s view that the new NCA party had potential to become a strong force on the country’s political landscape because the future of Zanu PF was uncertain due to its currently unclear succession plan.
“They want power. They want to get into the political ring and it is obviously to get power.
“It was expected of Madhuku because he did indicate earlier that he would form a political party. Things are very dynamic in Zimbabwe.
“We don’t know what Zanu PF will be tomorrow. We don’t know what it will be when Mugabe goes because he will go eventually. Time will tell, let’s wait and see,” Mandaza said
NCA spokesperson Blessing Vava said the new party would retain its name until the next congress early next year.
He said through the transforming into a political party, the NCA had a better chance to change the country’s Constitution.
“The NCA had to devise new methods and strategies by entering into the field of competing for political office so as to gain space to pursue our goals of ushering a new, democratic and people-driven Constitution,” Vava said
“We stand a good chance.”
