The Sunday Mail
Vice-President Dr Joice Mujuru should self-introspect following remarks by First Lady Dr Grace Mugabe apparently directed at her, and allow open discussions regarding the matter within Zanu-PF, political analysts have said.
The analysts commended the First Lady for being bold adding that her statements were refreshing as they were a departure from the politics of “boot-licking and hero-worshiping” associated with Zanu-PF.
Mass communication lecturer Mr Alexander Rusero said Amai Mugabe’s remarks encourage open criticism of leaders, an attribute critical to democracy.
He said: “At a certain point in time, it is good to tell each other the truth and criticise one another. I do not think the statements should be taken as a personal attack against Vice-President Mujuru, but as an attack against some cancers that are affecting the party, which are factionalism and corruption.
“I believe the First Lady was right in criticising what she believes is wrong. This is a good development in Zanu-PF because most of the time people are afraid of saying the truth. To criticise is to build. More often than not, Zanu-PF is full of boot-licking and hero-worshipping.”
He added: “So, this is a good departure from the norm. This is politics at play. . . She should self-introspect and be calm, allowing issues to be discussed openly in the party.”
Midlands State University media studies lecturer Dr Nhamo Mhiripiri said the Politburo should address the issue.
“It is a difficult and tricky situation. It shows that there is disunity and this is not good for the party. But what is most important is for the Vice-President to be granted her right of reply, as should be (done) in a democracy. Even criminals are given the right to defend themselves
before the courts. So, it is only fair that the Vice President should be given the chance to defend herself.
“As the things were unfolding, the media let us down because it failed to follow up on the accused people.
“The accused people were never given the chance to speak. The Politburo should urgently address the issue and place it top on the agenda.”
Executive Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Information Science at the National University of Science and Technology Dr Lawton Hikwa said Amai Mugabe’s stance against factionalism and corruption was commendable.
“The trend is that she has been speaking strongly against factionalism. I think for her to speak out like she did shows that she is maverick and brave,” he said.
“I think the solution lies with the President.
“He should decide what action to take considering that other party members are junior to the Vice-President who is facing these accusations.”
