Beverly Bizeki
Zimbabwe’s only female presidential candidate and president of the United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA) Elisabeth Valerio has said her presidential ambitions were not influenced by the need to join the Political Actor’s Dialogue (POLAD or any other benefits but to better the lives of Zimbabweans unlike other politicians.
Valerio was speaking during a special interview with TellZim Editor Passmore Kuzipa at Chevron Hotel in Masvingo where she said there was nothing for her in politics except that she wanted a good life for Zimbabweans.
“There is nothing I want in politics besides a better future for Zimbabwe, I have money, I have everything that I need, and there is nothing which politics can give me that I do not already have.
“People say to me you are into it because you want to join POLAD, because you want cars but I have cars and houses, I’m just not happy with the state of our country, I know that people died for a better Zimbabwe but there is still no equality in this country as only a few are benefitting and the ordinary person is suffering,” said Valerio.
Asked how the political terrain has been for her as a female candidate, Valerio said there has been a mixed response with some supporting her as a female leader while others are finding it difficult to shift from patriarchy.
“People in our society still have a mentality or culture where they do not see women as leaders nor believe a woman can lead Zimbabwe but I think the response I have been getting now as I have been touring Zimbabwe meeting people face to face is different, they are saying it is time for a woman so I think it is a mixed response.
“Some people think that only men should lead while at the same time a majority of our young people are seeing the potential of what a woman can bring into politics. On the other hand women are excited at the opportunity to be represented at the highest level,” said Valerio.
Valerio said her manifesto was unique and citizen driven in that it was informed by people whom she asked about their concerns.
“The manifesto is in four parts, it starts with accountability. Citizens across the country have said they want a Zimbabwe where there is a different type of environment with a government which answers to people, a government that is transparent and ensures separation of powers in terms of the law.
“Government should stop meddling in our courts and security services, we want accountability where institutions have separate roles and functions and where government gets out of the way,” said Valerio.
Valerio also said the manifesto addresses issues of advancement, stability and restoration.
“Zimbabwe is one of the wealthiest countries in the world yet we are an impoverished nation. As UZA we want to build a nation that is thriving in terms of industry, we want to look at responsible ways to manage our natural resources.
“We are seeing a lot of exploitation of our natural resources but we are not seeing it translating into economic advancement,” said Valerio.
Valerio had a hard time getting onto the ballot paper after her papers were rejected at the nomination court for late submission.
She however, managed to fight her way through until the electoral court granted her permission last month.
UZA is a two year old political party and is the only party with a female presidential candidate after Linda Masarira of LEAD failed to make it on the ballot since she failed to raise the required amount of US$20 000 on time.
