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Zanu PF - Army in desperate attempt to influence traditional leaders
Movement for Democratic Change
October 04, 2012

Traditional leaders here have been ordered to attend a meeting at the army headquarters in Masvingo in a move widely suspected to harbor clandestine political motives.

According to reports from Bikita, local chiefs and headmen received a circular from local district administrator Edgar Seenza advising them to attend the meeting scheduled for October 12 at 4 Brigade army headquarters in Masvingo.

Traditional leaders who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of victimisation said the move insinuated sinister political motives ahead of the highly anticipated referendum and elections, adding that they suspected the army would move in to intimidate villagers ahead of the crucial processes.

A letter from the District Administrator's office dated September 26 only reads: "To all chiefs and headmen - invitation to attend traditional leaders' day at the Officers Mess at HQ 4 Brigade. You are expected to attend the meeting."

Another headman said the move reflected desperation in the Zanu PF camp. "Zanu PF is desperate to use the army and traditional leaders to influence the outcome of both the referendum and elections. I know that some traditional leaders are also part of the whole ploy but I do not support such a sinister move. Chiefs will definitely attend as this is a command not an invite. The dubious meeting is obviously meant to indoctrinate traditional leaders as the nation braces for the watershed polls," he said.

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