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As news filtered that Nelson Chamisa, the leader of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) had abandoned the party he formed due to infiltration by the likes of self-imposed secretary-general, Sengezo Tshabangu, people in Zimbabwe had mixed reactions.
Nelson Chamisa announced via social media Thursday that he no longer had anything to do with the Citizens Coalition for Change.
“FELLOW CITIZENS, This is to officially, and under my hand, inform you, that, with immediate effect, I no longer have anything to do with CCC. My focus remains fully on Zimbabwe, asserting your victory, honoring the citizens’ mandate and God’s calling to provide leadership.
“There are fresh things we need to do. Let’s all work together for total freedom, true change, and holistic transformation for our beloved country. Giving up or giving in is not an option. Nothing comes without tenacity and resilience. Fellow citizens, you will be kept posted on the next steps.
“Thank you all for the support and continued prayers as we get ready for the NEW. Let us embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. Change is coming soon! God bless you,” Chamisa posted on X, formerly Twitter.
One of Chamisa’s fiercest critics, Linda Masarira, upon receiving the message, came up guns blazing against the popular opposition leader.
“Leaders don’t easily run from a difficult situation. If they commit to doing something, they make sure they accomplish it. They are answerable if they commit themselves, no matter what happens in life or what circumstances they face in life. How a leader stands the test of time is the only definitive validation of ability and accomplishment.
“Leaders show consistency, demonstrate endurance, and stay the course. They never quit. At times, leaders may change the course by altering strategies, tactics, or methodologies, but they don’t quit. Strip away the excuses, rationalizations, and justifications, and the only thing standing between you and the attainment of your objectives is what you see staring back at you when you look in the mirror each morning,” Masarira said.
Fadzayi Mahere, the Legislator for Mt. Pleasant revealed that she stands with the move taken by Chamisa.
“There’s no legitimate CCC without our Change Champion in Chief. There’s no legitimate Parliament without respect for the will of the people. I stand by Adv @nelsonchamisa’s decision and join him in leaving the charade. I remain committed to fighting for true democracy and better lives for all Zimbabweans.
“To those who believed, voted, and supported, I owe you my deepest gratitude. I will be communicating with you directly soon to map a way forward,” Mahere posted on X.
Dozens of other CCC legislators also joined Mahere in issuing statements that supported the move taken by Chamisa.
According to Masarira, these CCC MPs are grandstanding with solidarity messages.
“Chamisa doesn’t have anything to do with CCC anymore, and those in solidarity with him will only be taken seriously when they post their resignation from parliament letters, which are dated and stamped.
“One of the biggest tragedies of the yellow movement was that it was founded in reaction to a crisis that had emanated in MDCA. There was no ideology in place, no constitution, and no structure, thus leaving a single person calling the shots. Strongman politics became the order of the day, and candidates participated in by-elections and 2023 harmonized elections riding on the popularity of the strongman without a strong institution,” Masarira said.
Makomborero Haruzivishe, a human rights activist, commended ‘selfless positions by elected MPs and Councillors who came out on social media standing with Nelson Chamisa on distancing themselves from CCC.”It is critical they practically demonstrate social media loyalty by realistically withdrawing from Parliament. As lawmakers and councillors, I am sure they know that social media statements alone amount to nothing without the practical steps to write and deliver resignation letters to Parliament and the council.
“Friday is a working day relevant parliament and council offices are open; walk the social media talk and practically resign to distance self from CCC,” Haruzivishe said on X.
