By Takudzwa Changadeya
Opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) led by Douglas Mwonzora has renounced the party’s national Chairman Morgan Komichi for clandestinely organising a press conference launching a splinter political movement using the party’s logo and name.
On Wednesday, Komichi held a press conference in Harare announcing his takeover of the movement left by the late Morgan Tsvangirai.
In a statement seen by BustopTV, the party’s Secretary for Information and Publicity Witness Dube revealed that Komichi’s actions were against the party’s constitution.
“We have become aware of a press conference held by Mr. Komichi at some private location in the capital, purporting to launch a splinter political movement.
“First and foremost, we wish to clarify that the actions taken by Mr. Komichi are not endorsed by the MDC and that we firmly believe in a united front that represents the aspirations and values of our party and its supporters. Mr. Komichi’s decision to initiate his own political party means that he automatically ceases to be a member of the MDC,” said Dube.
“Furthermore, it is important to highlight that Mr. Komichi is not authorized, either by the party’s constitution or the country’s constitution, to use the MDC’s name, symbol, or logo for his new political venture.”
Dube added that they will take necessary steps to protect their party.
“Such usage contravenes both legal frameworks, and we will take all necessary steps to protect our party’s identity and ensure compliance with the law,” he said.
During Komichi’s conference on Wednesday, one of the irated MDC members who identified himself as Boaz Mangamiso harshly said Komichi had no right to use the party’s logo and name.
“You are not the president of this party Komichi and you don’t have the right to use that logo and name. What you are doing will end up putting you in danger.
“Douglas Mwonzora is the only party leader we know and he is currently out of the country on national duty. If you want to have your own party, please go find a new name not our name”, he said.
“We didn’t come this far with this party for you to come and fiddle around with it like this, this is not good and we are not going to allow you to do this again.”
In response to the insults, Komichi said: “I am not here to listen to people who have personal issues with me. I am here to let people know the truth about the movement, I am the leader of the party and whoever is willing to join me is welcome.
“I’m also inviting Mwonzora to join me if he is willing to, Even Chamisa tell him that it’s not too late to join the right movement,” Komichi said.
