CHINHOYI — MDC-T leader Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai has warned President Robert Mugabe against putting much trust in his security chiefs, saying they were “mere mortals”. Report by Own Correspondent

Addressing thousands of people at a peace prayer concert in Chinhoyi over the weekend, Tsvangirai said only God had the ability to ensure political stability.

The event was part of efforts by interdenominational churches to prepare the nation for peaceful, free and fair elections expected later this year.

“What I am emphasising to my fellow comrade (Mugabe) is that it is folly to bank on the might of fellow human beings, the armed forces. That is not the power base you should be bragging about and banking on. Count on the strength and might of the Lord, our God.”

The Prime Minister said the new draft constitution respected the supremacy of God and viewed all humans as equals.

Tsvangirai went on to speak against utterances by security service chiefs and other politicians who have declared that they will not allow anyone with no liberation war credentials to assume the Presidency, in apparent reference to him.

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Several top army officials have publicly declared their allegiance to Zanu PF and vowed not to recognise Tsvangirai as leader of this country even if he wins the next election.

During the 33rd Independence anniversary celebrations in Harare last Thursday, Information minister and Zanu PF political commissar Webster Shamu reiterated the same position, saying his party would not be removed from power through the ballot box.

“Such reckless pronouncements do not advance peace and political stability in the country. In the upcoming polls, people should register as voters and cast their ballots to defend their fundamental right of universal suffrage,” Tsvangirai said.

“I want to emphasise the peace call by President Mugabe during Independence Day celebrations in Harare. Some in Zanu PF now think Mugabe is selling out when he says ‘peace begins with you, peace begins with me, peace begins with all of us’.

“Peace has never been given so much attention in this country before. These are words that build the nation. Violence is a culture, a value system which is strengthened by impunity.

“As Zimbabweans, we are drawing the line that never again should Zimbabweans fight each other. I have worked with Mugabe for the past four years and we oftentimes joke saying ‘you wanted me beaten up, didn’t you?’ Politics is counter-productive when it is violent.”

MDC-T national organising secretary Nelson Chamisa underscored the need for peace and tranquillity in all facets of life, saying that would bring harmony and development in the country. Chamisa, who is also Information Communication Technology minister, said losers in the coming polls should concede defeat and work together with victors towards nation-building.

Senior officials from Zanu PF, Welshman Ncube’s MDC and other smaller parties did not attend the meeting.

The concert featured performances by renowned gospel musicians Charles and Olivia Charamba and fast-rising artiste Blessing Shumba, among others.