Political Reporter
The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Movement Mobiliser, Amos Chibaya, once a steadfast ally of the Nelson Chamisa faction, has emerged as a cunning strategist, orchestrating a double-cross that has left both Chamisa and Sengezo Tshabangu reeling in disbelief.
A source who spoke to this publication said that Chibaya's political tactics involved a shrewd deal with Tshabangu in order to retain his Mkoba North parliamentary seat.
“Chibaya navigated the treacherous waters of CCC factionalism by securing signatures from both the Chamisa and Tshabangu-led factions, ensuring he retains his coveted seat, which was earlier lost when Tshabangu recalled him for defecting to Chamisa's faction,” said the source.
According to the source, this political manoeuvre has thrust Chibaya's future into an uncertain abyss as the details of his duplicitous actions come to light.
The source said that, astounded by the audacity of his double-cross, Tshabangu, feeling deeply betrayed, has initiated legal proceedings to have Chibaya removed from the ballot in next year’s by elections.
“At the heart of the legal battle is Tshabangu's contention that Chibaya cannot legitimately contest using the CCC name—a party that had previously recalled him for defecting to Chamisa's faction. The courtroom drama promises to unravel the intricacies of party politics and power dynamics within the CCC, laying bare the alliances and betrayals that have become synonymous with CCC political landscapes,” said the source.
The same source claimed that the stakes have escalated further, with Tshabangu wielding the same legal principle to target Gift Ostallos Siziba.
Siziba used the CCC name during the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) nomination court on Monday.
The source said that Siziba will soon be barred from contesting the by elections on CCC ticket as Tshabangu wants one Moreblessing Tembo to represent CCC in Pelandaba-Tshabalala constituency.
“Tshabangu's CCC has strategically fielded Tembo as its candidate in Pelandaba-Tshabalala, the constituency also being eyed by Siziba. This adds an additional layer of complexity to the already convoluted political confusion, showcasing the depth of the power struggle within the CCC. It's likely that Siziba will be recalled to pave the way for Tshabangu’s candidate, Tembo,” said the source.
The coming weeks are likely to be critical for the CCC as internal struggles unfold and members make decisive choices in a bid to secure their political relevance. The factional rifts threaten not only the party's cohesion but also the broader aspirations of those who had initially rallied under the CCC banner.
