Madhuku peace call show of political maturity

Philemon Jambaya

Political players across the divide have heaped praise on Professor Lovemore Madhuku for preaching the word of peace ahead of the 2023 harmonised elections.

Zimbabwe elections have in recent years associated with violence with both the opposition and the ruling party accusing each other of perpetrating violence.

At a political rally held over the weekend in Chipinge, Madhuku told his supporters that they should be peaceful and tolerant of other political players.

“If Chamisa comes here just tell him in a peaceful way that Madhuku was here and we are giving him our vote but with Chamisa, we all agree that Zanu PF must go but I am the one who should lead,” Madhuku said.

In a tweet Deputy Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, George Charamba said he applauds the message of peace which was being preached by Madhuku although he sounded like mocking him.

“Nice rally @ProfMadhuk, well attended to the tune of 17 people. You could literally shake everyone’s hand after the rally.

“But more important is the message of peace which you steadfastly preach. Keep on pushing the boundaries, you may never know” Tweeted Charamba.

Human Rights lawyer Obey Shava also applauded Madhuku’s utterances.

“We give credit where it's due. Prof Madhuku, at a star rally which was attended by a record crowd of 17 people, campaigning peacefully. His message is that of tolerance. No hate speech, no violence. This is the Zimbabwe we want,” tweeted Shava.

Former students' leader Makomborero Haruziviishe, who is in exile, said that Madhuku showed political maturity.

“This campaign speech by @ProfMadhuku shows political maturity that Zimbabwe seriously needs 1. No hate speech 2. No incitement to political violence 3. Factual and no disinformation on political opponents 4. #ZanuPfMustGo

“I however say #NgaapindeHakeMukomana Chamisa!” Haruziviishe said.