By Gift Mashoko

The appointment of former MDC legislator for Mabvuku-Tafara, James Maridadi as ambassador-designate has been highly commended by citizens who have applauded the new dispensation for exhibiting high level of democracy and tolerance.

Mariradi lost favour with MDC leader Nelson Chamisa soon after Chamisa took over the party reins after the death of Morgan Tsvangirai in 2018 and he once worked as Radio 3 Disc jockey.

Maridadi is among 15 ambassador-designates and 23 Foreign Affairs officials who started a month-long diplomatic training course in Harare today.

Cyber troll Never Maswerasei‏ posted on his Twitter handle saying the gesture was well deserved.

“Dear Zimbabwe, the appointment of James Maridadi to being an ambassador is a demonstration of the effectiveness of non-confrontational politics. I am yet to come across an opposition leader whose Parliament debates were as effective and down to earth as James. It's not about making noise,” said Maswerasei.

Relatedly, Pablo Chimusoro posted on his Twitter page saying Maridadi’s appointment will surely make history in Zimbabwe.

“The deployment of James Maridadi will really be a great story for Zimbabwe. He excelled in his endeavours, and his story is really inspiring, from the radio to leadership. It will remind us of the so many capabilities within us. And I believe he will serve well,” he said.

ZANU PF Youth League‏ twitted applauding Maridadi’s appointment saying this would not have happened if it were not the new dispensation.

“Applauding His Excellency President Mnangagwa for coming up with an inclusive team in appointment of Ambassadors designate that include former MDC MP, James Maridadi. Indeed, this is a new dispensation.”

One netizen Jabu Mangena‏ posted on his twitter handle saying Maridadi is a true Zimbabwean and deserves the post.

“Interesting questions there, could it be President Mnangagwa saw James Maridadi for who he is a true patriot who puts Zimbabwe first? His engagement in parliament showed a maturity and ability to communicate that will make him a great ambassador,” he said.

Speaking to the Harare Post, one Political Analyst who preferred anonymity, highlighted that Maridadi’s appointment shows how the politics of Zimbabwe is separate from Government business. He said this appointment was not based on political grounds but according to the good works he has been exhibiting throughout these years.

He said, “The problem with MDC is that anyone who starts separating themselves from the party is labelled ZANU PF, it is not always about politics. They should just let people make their own decisions.”