South East District Statement

Following an extra ordinary South East District Council meeting held over the weekend 28th May 2011, which was attended by seven out of a possible ten Branches where-at those present committed themselves to furthering the objects of the MDC within the UK & Ireland Assembly. The members also reinstated their position in respect of the resolutions passed on the 30th April 2011. The District, however, declines insinuations that they closed their door to dialogue, nowhere in the resolutions was this stated. As a District, we salute the majority of the Branch executives and the membership for remaining resolute, steadfast and fearless while they were threatened with an array of measures, in the event they decided to stick with the resolutions.

This District would like to recognise the efforts of the Provincial Treasurer, Mr T. Chamboko, who contacted both offices of the District Chair and Vice Chair and requested them to facilitate a forum for engagement with the people. Unfortunately, he failed to make it in time on the 28th, we, however, recognise that sense of political maturity and exhibition of unparalleled leadership qualities not so evident. Yes, in a true democracy there will always be dissenting ideas, it is how we deal with them that distinguishes democrats from autocrats.

This District has also welcomed the move that the District Chairs would like to engage with South East District in a bid to understand the issues and chart a way forward. South East District will facilitate and create a platform for this healthy dialogue to allow for a process that recognises that we are a Party Par Excellence hinged on democratic principles, lest we allow ourselves to be a mirror image of ZANU (PF). Thank you North District Chair for taking this bold step and initiating this process, we can assure you that the people of South East are humbled and will give you a hearty warm welcome and reinstate our commitment to being part of the family. We shall advise you of a venue and date.

South East District is cognisant of the need for unity and solidarity more-so at this time when the Party is gearing itself for elections and preparing to be the next government, it is the actions of Province that tend to raffle feathers. We remain focussed, disciplined and loyal!

I thank you all; let us remain united and resolute!

Remember these wise words by Harry Truman, “It is understanding that gives us an ability to have peace. When we understand the other fellow's viewpoint, and he understands ours, then we can sit down and work out our differences.”

Khama Matambanadzo

MDC South East District Chair

"South East District, Real Change In The Making"