Q: You have said the allegations that you plotted to assassinate Mugabe are a ploy by ZANU PF and Mugabe to discredit you and eventually eliminate you from the presidential election race. What exactly do you mean by that? Do you mean Mugabe may actually wish to physically eliminate you?
A: I am saying Mugabe is pulling the last card. All along there have been these conspiracy theories being targeted against the MDC but the most serious one of course is this latest one. They come up with imaginary plots to assassinate the president of the country and blame this on the leader of the opposition believing that this will tarnish his (Tsvangirai’s) image.
Q: But how about yourself, are you not afraid that you could be targeted?
A: Of course the risk is there. In fact, all Zimbabweans who hold political opinions different to ZANU PF are exposed to this state-sponsored violence. Mugabe has built up institutions of violence against the people — the militias, the rogue element of the war veterans and some members of the police force who are conniving with ZANU PF thugs against the people. All this is part of a violent strategy intended to cow the opposition. Of course I am also at risk personally but I am not intimidated. I will continue on my campaign in the full knowledge that the people of Zimbabwe have a right to make a choice.
Q: And on international election observers, in your view do you believe the international election observers will be able to make a meaningful difference as far as ensuring that there is a free and fair election?
A: I am saying Mugabe is pulling the last card. All along there have been these conspiracy theories being targeted against the MDC but the most serious one of course is this latest one. They come up with imaginary plots to assassinate the president of the country and blame this on the leader of the opposition believing that this will tarnish his (Tsvangirai’s) image.
Q: But how about yourself, are you not afraid that you could be targeted?
A: Of course the risk is there. In fact, all Zimbabweans who hold political opinions different to ZANU PF are exposed to this state-sponsored violence. Mugabe has built up institutions of violence against the people — the militias, the rogue element of the war veterans and some members of the police force who are conniving with ZANU PF thugs against the people. All this is part of a violent strategy intended to cow the opposition. Of course I am also at risk personally but I am not intimidated. I will continue on my campaign in the full knowledge that the people of Zimbabwe have a right to make a choice.
Q: And on international election observers, in your view do you believe the international election observers will be able to make a meaningful difference as far as ensuring that there is a free and fair election?