In a dramatic turn of events, several prominent members of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) have declared their unwavering support for Nelson Chamisa after the charismatic politician announced his departure from the party. Chamisa cited the infiltration of CCC by the ruling Zanu PF as the primary reason for his decision to sever ties with the political organization he had led during the August 23 harmonized elections.
Chamisa’s departure from CCC dealt a significant blow to the party, which had managed to deprive Zanu PF of a two-thirds majority in parliament. However, the triumph was short-lived, as Sengezo Tshabangu, the self-imposed interim secretary-general of CCC, swiftly emerged and initiated the recall of several legislators and councillors. This sudden surge of by-elections has plunged the nation into a state of political uncertainty.
In a heartfelt statement, Chamisa expressed his disillusionment with the current state of CCC, claiming that the party’s original vision had been “contaminated, bastardized, hijacked by Zanu PF through the abuse of State institutions.” His sentiments resonated with notable CCC legislators who took to social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), to pledge their support for Chamisa and distance themselves from the party.
Mount Pleasant MP Fadzayi Mahere tendered her resignation to the Speaker of Parliament yeasterday. She said, “Thank you, Mt Pleasant Constituency for having faith in me. Despite feeling a profound sense of sadness for all I had hoped we could do together to build a pleasant Mt Pleasant, I have officially submitted by resignation from Parliament and will cease to be a member of CCC.”
Takudzwa Ngadziore, Harare MP for Youth Quota declared, “We are with you until the realisation of a new great Zimbabwe.” He expressed solidarity with Chamisa’s vision and emphasized the importance of loyalty to the struggle for a new Zimbabwe.
Daniel Molekele, Hwange Central MP, regarded CCC as a political vehicle towards a brighter future for Zimbabwe. He affirmed that the political journey must continue, with Chamisa representing the vision for a new great Zimbabwe.
Darlington Chigumbu, MP for Budiriro South, expressed gratitude to Chamisa for his unwavering support and stated, “Today I choose to stand with the people. I want to thank president Nelson Chamisa for the sacrifices he made before, during and after the election process. He stood by us, and the time has come for us to return the favour.”
Clifford Hlatywayo, MP for Chipinge South, highlighted Chamisa’s leadership as the people’s choice and the hope for a new Zimbabwe.
Rusty Markham, Harare East MP, clarified his allegiance, stating, “For the avoidance of doubt, and for the sake of clarity, I stand with Nelson Chamisa.”
Other legislators, including Agency Gumbo, MP for Hatcliffe, and Joana Mamombe, MP for Harare West, echoed their support for Chamisa, emphasizing their belief in his leadership and their commitment to saving Zimbabwe.
As the exodus from CCC continues, the party finds itself at a critical juncture. The departure of influential figures and the widespread disillusionment with the party’s direction pose significant challenges to its future viability and effectiveness. The political landscape in Zimbabwe remains in flux as the nation eagerly awaits the next steps of Nelson Chamisa and his supporters in their pursuit of a new great Zimbabwe.
