The ruling Zanu PF and Movement for Democratic Change seem to be singing a different tune on the significance of the democracy flame lit at Gwanzura Stadium on Saturday to mark the 19th anniversary of the leading opposition party.
According to MDC leader, Nelson Chamisa, the democracy flame signifies the genesis of greatness and a call to action.
“Back in the 1890s, lighting a flame in communities was a sign of the genesis of alertness. The ‘democracy and transformation flame’ ignited at the MDC 19th anniversary rally is a call to action. The 19 white doves symbolize our 19-yr commitment to love, peace and nonviolence,” said Chamisa in a Twitter post today.
But Zanu PF’s Paul Mangwana did not mince his words, dismissing the MDC’s democracy flame as a non event and child’s play.
“People light flames in their homes every day. There is nothing symbolic about lighting a fire. Children play with a lot of toys including fire and they are allowed to play with toys as they grow up. So I’m sure Chamisa was just playing with toys one day imagining that he could be a president. So if that wish becomes a horse then he will ride. No symbolism should be attached to it,” Mangwana said in an interview with 263Chat.
