MRP marks 10 years of advocacy for separation
Mbekezeli Ncube
The Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP) is commemorating its 10th anniversary this year, marking a decade of commitment to advocating for the separation of Matabeleland provinces and part of the Midlands from Zimbabwe.
Founded in 2014, MRP’s mission is rooted in addressing what it claims are historical injustices and marginalization faced by the Mthwakazi people, particularly the Gukurahundi massacres of the early 1980s.
Party leader Mqondisi Moyo reflected on the party’s journey, navigating challenges and achieving milestones.
He said despite initial setbacks, MRP remained steadfast in its vision and fearlessly confronted the injustices suffered under the ZANU-PF government. Moyo acknowledged the arrests and obstacles encountered along the way but emphasized their unwavering determination to pursue their cause.
“Despite a modest turnout at our launch (On January 11,2014), overshadowed by Robert Mugabe’s oppressive regime, it failed to dim our unwavering commitment to chasing our vision and dreams. Undaunted, we marched forward with an audacious spirit, fearlessly confronting the injustices suffered by the Mthwakazi people under the tyrannical rule of the ZANU-PF government. Even as the shackles of arrests clinked along the way, our determination stood resolute, a guiding beacon lighting our unwavering path,” said Moyo
MRP’s efforts to separate the Matabeleland territories from Zimbabwe have faced resistance from the state culminating in arrests during demonstrations.
However, Moyo affirmed their resolve to continue advocating for the rights of their people.
“We as a powerful force of revolution, fearlessly stood up against countless threats, despite our youthful vigor and relative obscurity within Zimbabwean politics. With unyielding determination, we are fearlessly pushed forward, undeterred by these obstacles,” said Moyo.
He added, “As we look ahead, it is important to recognize the on-going obstacles we face, particularly the scarcity of resources that heavily rely on the support of our members and donors. Additionally, the Zimbabwean government, using its security apparatus, has continuously subjected us to unwarranted arrests and intimidation.”
Moyo highlighted the importance of ongoing support from members and donors and expressed solidarity with nine MRP members the party says were unjustly imprisoned for staging a protest in 2022.
“We stand in solidarity with the nine committed MRP members who are unjustly serving prison terms ranging from 33 to 36 months, with baseless charges levelled against them,” said Moyo.
MRP have also been involved in protests against Bulawayo-based companies employing non-locals.
