New Zimbabwe Political Party Launched

WASHINGTON —  A new political party calling itself the Zimbabwe Freedom Front was launched in Harare on Tuesday, bringing to at least 29 the number of known political parties likely to feature in the next general elections to be held sometime this year.

Zimbabwe Freedom Front president Cosmas Mponda said he will run against President Robert Mugabe, Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai and others wishing to occupy the country’s top political office.

Mr. Muponda criticized the current power-sharing arrangement in the country saying the coalition has failed to transform the lives of ordinary Zimbabweans. He said his party would be different.

Interview With Cosmas Mponda

“When it comes to economic development there is nothing much that is happening right now,” said Mponda, who added that "there are so many problems we feel are being left unanswered."

Another party, the Free Zimbabwe Congress, was also launched in the country recently.

Leader Joseph Busha said his party will field candidates in all parliamentary constituencies, adding he is ready to serve the people of Zimbabwe.

Interview With Joseph Busha

The Multi-Racial Christian Democrats (MCD) is also expected to contest in this year’s elections.

Spokesman Mathias Guchutu said it is high time Zimbabwe was led by caring and accountable leaders.

Guchutu said having "God-fearing" leaders can and will change how government is run in Zimbabwe.

Interview with Mathias Guchutu

These three parties now join the at least 28 active political parties in the country eager to participate in harmonized elections.

The parties include the Democratic Alliance-United People’s Party, Zimbabwe Youth Alliance, Zimbabwe Development Party, Progressive and Innovative Movement for People’s Prosperity.