Own Correspondent|A sign language interpreter for MDC leader Nelson Chamisa fainted under the heat in Gweru on Sunday, sending thousands of the party faithful into momentary panic.

Chamisa was addressing a huge rally at Mkoba Stadium to thank supporters for voting for him last July when the mishap happened.

The woman, who has not been named, first staggered forward before falling on her back as Chamisa’s security moved in to her aid.

“Oh sorry,” Chamisa said as he looked to his side and realised what had just happened.

As he started speaking again, Chamisa noted concerns in the crowd as people wondered what had just happened.

“Don’t worry, she will be okay. I think it’s the overflow of the holy spirit in this place,” the MDC leader joked, breaking the tension.

Temperatures short to as high as 32 at midday in the usually cool Midlands capital. First aid personnel attended to her on site and she immediately recovered but could not continue with her task.