Harare– Linda Tsungirirai Masarira, president of the Labour Economists and Afrikan Democrats (LEAD), has issued a strong public rebuke of fellow opposition figure Fadzayi Mahere, condemning what she describes as “unnecessary, hostile, and regressive” social media attacks against another female politician.

In a press statement dated December 8, Masarira called for dignity and sisterhood in political discourse, specifically addressing online attacks by Mahere directed at Hon. Tatenda Mavetera.

A Decade of Progress Undermined

Masarira, identifying as an African feminist with over a decade in politics and activism, framed the public conflict as a setback for women’s collective advancement. “It is… disheartening to witness one of our own engage in behaviour that drags us ten steps backward,” she stated.

The press release argues that while political disagreement is natural, “trolling, personalised insults, and emotionally charged hostility, especially between women leaders,” erode years of effort to build political maturity and cross-party solidarity among women.

Criticism of an ‘Iron Lady’

The statement takes direct aim at Mahere’s conduct and political persona. “Someone who calls herself an ‘iron lady’ should demonstrate emotional strength, restraint, and leadership not pettiness, overbearing conduct, or public antagonism,” Masarira asserted.

She further expressed concern that Mahere, despite her platform, “has never actively participated in the women’s movement or attended women’s empowerment programmes in Zimbabwe, yet chooses to tear down another woman in full public view.”

A Call for a Higher Standard

Masarira called the behavior unacceptable and issued a direct call to order. She emphasized that women in politics must model “dignified conduct, constructive engagement, and political maturity.”

The statement concludes with a set of principles Masarira vows to uphold: “Collaboration, not division; Sisterhood, not spite; Debate, not degradation; Leadership, not trolling.” She urged women in politics to be “each other’s keeper,” challenging one another with respect and substance.

The public statement highlights ongoing tensions within Zimbabwe’s political landscape, where personal attacks on digital platforms often overshadow policy debate. It frames the conflict not just as a personal dispute but as a moment with implications for the broader struggle for women’s political space.