Political Reporter
The leader of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), Nelson Chamisa, has reportedly ousted that party's spokesperson, Promise Mkwananzi, and appointed Gift ‘Ostallos’ Siziba as the new voice of the opposition movement.
According to a reliable source, Mkwananzi received notice of his termination through a WhatsApp message on Monday night.
The source disclosed that Chamisa's decision was driven by a perceived lack of alignment between Mkwananzi's conduct and the leader's expectations.
Initially chosen for his assertive and confrontational approach, Mkwananzi has remained relatively subdued since assuming the role of spokesperson.
The source claimed that Chamisa had anticipated Mkwananzi to utilise his reputation for incisiveness to instigate turmoil in the country.
However, Mkwananzi's public demeanour remained calm, with only occasional social media posts subtly criticising the Government and ZANU PF.
Political commentator, Reason Wafawarova took to social media to confirm Mkwananzi's dismissal, stating, "Va Nelson Chamisa vaenderera mberi nezano rakavhiringika (strategic ambiguity) apo vadzinga Va Mkwananzi basa husiku semuroyi."
Commenting on the situation, political analyst Edith Mushore expressed concern over the frequency of spokesperson dismissals within the opposition movement.
Runyanga highlighted that Mkwananzi joins a list that includes Fadzayi Mahere, Dr. Nkululeko Sibanda, and Daniel Molokele, all of whom faced abrupt terminations by Chamisa.
Mushore remarked, "The pattern of dismissing spokespersons suggests underlying issues within the opposition movement."
She emphasised the need for stability and continuity in the leadership of the CCC to foster public trust.
Meanwhile, Mkwananzi is challenging his termination, taking to social media to deny his removal as CCC spokesperson.
The development adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing changes within the opposition party, leaving observers to speculate on the motivations behind Chamisa's decisions.
As the CCC navigates through internal adjustments, the political landscape remains dynamic, raising questions about that party's strategic direction and the potential impact of these changes on its influence in Zimbabwean politics.
