Chamisa left red-faced as Biden skirts Zimbabwe in UNGA address

Political Reporter

In what appears to be an unexpected turn of events, Nelson Chamisa, the leader of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), might find himself grappling with disappointment.

This follows American President Joe Biden's address to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) today, where he overlooked Zimbabwe entirely.

Many anticipated that Biden might cast a spotlight on Zimbabwe, considering the ties Chamisa claims to share with the American leader and the US government.

Political analyst Nobleman Runyanga weighed in on the address, stating, "Chamisa and the CCC must be feeling the sting of shame after Biden's remarks. The American President did not chastise Zimbabwe over last month’s polls as they might have hoped. Instead, Biden shifted his focus to broader, mutual developmental issues that hold global significance."

During his address, President Biden pivoted his attention to the escalating Russia-Ukraine conflict, the pressing concerns of climate change, and the innovations and challenges of artificial intelligence.

 Remarkably, Zimbabwe's mention was absent, leaving many to speculate on the implications of this omission.

Runyanga further commented on Biden's address, highlighting that the US President "emphasised the necessity to reform multilateral finance institutions such as the World Bank and the IMF, urging them to be more attuned to the unique challenges and needs of developing countries."

Runyanga added that Biden's remarks on democracy primarily revolved around the coups in West Africa, and he reaffirmed a commitment to be guided by the principles of the continental body, the African Union (AU), and the Western African bloc, the Economic Community of West African States  (ECOWAS).

“In a tone emphasising co-operation and partnership, President Biden underscored the rights of every nation, irrespective of its size. He upheld the values of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and freedom, staying true to the foundational principles of the United Nations,” said Runyanga.

Runyanga didn't mince words when speaking about the CCC and its leader.

 "The CCC is a political entity, whereas Zimbabwe stands as a sovereign nation with equal rights at the UNGA. The presence of Zimbabwe, represented by President Mnangagwa and Ambassador Frederick Shava, reinforces the nation's legitimate membership in the international community."

The political analyst did not shy away from criticising Chamisa and his party, labelling them as "anarchists, (who are) devoid of the decorum necessary for international events. Rather than championing Zimbabwe on a global platform, they seem keen on scandalising the nation, showcasing their political immaturity."

Meanwhile, President Mnangagwa is set to address the UNGA on Thursday. He is anticipated to make a strong appeal for the unconditional removal of sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe by America and its allies