Own Correspondent|Representatives of Matabeleland civil society organisations told President Emmerson Mnangagwa to take devolution of power seriously or risk being kicked out of power the Robert Mugabe Way.

Contributing to the discussion on the devolution of power principle in a meeting between Mnangagwa and Matabeleland civic organisations, a member representing civil societies from Binga in Matabeleland North told Mnangagwa that one of the reasons why former President Robert Mugabe was removed from power was because he failed to obey the constitution to implement devolution.

The member told Mnangagwa to his face that if he fails to deliver the devolution of power provision the same method that was used to dislodge Mugabe will be used on him.

Sources who attended the closed door meeting held at the Bulawayo State House on Thursday told ZimEye.com that Mnangagwa reacted in extreme anger to the warning claiming that people who believe that Mugabe was disposed for failing to implement devolution were misinformed.

Mnangagwa told the meeting that his government was serious about implementing devolution as they have since allocated $31 million towards the initial stages of the programme.

Mnangagwa hailed the people of Matabeleland for standing firm in demanding and defending devolution of power claiming that government is finalising legislation that will govern the implementation of the programme.

According to the reports, Matabeleland demand that Mnangagwa compensates the region’s previous marginalisation by giving it more resources and attention compared to the other regions.

In response, Mnangagwa said that councillors in the devolved provincial councils will have to push the demands through and government will consider the submission.

Matabeleland region has been in the forefront in the demand for devolution of power which the region believes is the only means available that can help enhance development after years of marginalisation under the ZANU PF government.