by Patience Rashai

Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) Alliance distressed frontman, Nelson Chamisa has resumed his trouble rousing antics again, this time calling for a nation-wide demonstrations while addressing supporters gathered for a ‘Thank You’ rally at Marondera’s Rudhaka Stadium last Saturday

The naïve leader took a cast against the Government claiming that the country was suffering at the hands of an illegitimate Government, despite the fact that the Second Republic was constitutionally elected by the people of Zimbabwe.

“People cannot continue suffering at the hands of one person, therefore I am calling upon you to help us demonstrate and remove this illegitimate Government.

“The Constitution allows for demonstrations if we are not happy with the Government. Section 59 of the Constitution allows us to demonstrate and no one can stop us and this is.”

In a desperate effort to sell his idea, the MDC leader claimed that all the provinces he had visited had assured him that they would rally behind him to overthrow the constitutionally elected Government.

 “I was in Gwanda and Bulawayo recently and they all said that they were ready to demonstrate against this Government. So it’s now up to you as Mash East to also determine your destiny before you starve to death. So, as Marondera when do you suggest we should demonstrate, next week or next month? he asked, rhetorically.

Chamisa’s vote rigging accusations comes two months after the apex court dismissed the MDC Alliance leader’s claims with costs. The constitutional court ruled in favour of President Mnangagwa after Chamisa failed to produce evidence to support his application as provided by the law.

The rally started at a very low key with a handful of supporters failing to fill the stadium’s two bays before the party resorted to calling on all vehicle owners to get into town for a car rally in a bid to harvest crowds, resulting in an improved audience.

The party generally has a long history of violent demonstrations, from Tsvangirai’s era, (the infamous 2007 food riots) – Tajamuka - to this day (the recent August incident).

Section 59 of the Constitution states that every person has the right to demonstrate and present petitions. However, Section 86 further clarifies that these rights and freedoms should be exercised reasonably and with due regard for the rights and freedoms of other persons.