Story by Fungai Jachi
VISITING Communist Party of the Russian Federation (CPRF) Central Committee Member, Dr Vyacheslav Tetekin, has challenged opposition political parties to protect national interests against foreign influence and domination.
In an interview with the ZBC News in Harare this Wednesday, Dr Tetekin discouraged opposition political parties from being swayed and used by the West, noting the need for constructive criticism which propels national development.
“These parties are being artificially created precisely to serve the other side of the outside forces. The new parties should be rooted in patriotism so that even when they criticise the government, it is constructive. It can be difficult for them because if their money is coming from the enemy, then they will not be able to be part of the national development story.”
Dr Tetekin has also been impressed by Zimbabwe’s developmental trajectory.
“Now we see the proliferation of black businesses and there is strong development in the country. The masses have become the masters of their own destiny. A lot has changed since the colonial era and especially now, I have realised that Zimbabwe is growing, and it is impressive.”
Strategies to win the war against neo-colonialism also took centre stage.
“A way out of neo-colonialism is improving the economy and to do that, focus on education because education paves the way for transformation. Training skilled workers is critical because, as a country, you will be able to make your own things and survive. As long as you have friends who can assist and not want to take resources away from you, it is very easy to become a self-reliant nation. If Russia did it and can do it, it is possible,” he stated.
Dr Tetekin, who is in the country on an official visit, delivered a lecture on sanctions at the Chitepo School of Ideology in Harare and is expected to engage ZANU PF officials during his tour of duty.
