Political Reporter
Some recalled Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) are expressing bitterness towards party leader, Nelson Chamisa, accusing him of misguidance in the recent by-elections.
A recalled legislator who spoke to this publication said that Chamisa's directive for the recalled legislators to contest the by-elections under the CCC banner, despite a High Court ruling barring their participation, has left the legislators disillusioned.
The same former legislator said that they initially wanted to run as independent candidates to insulate themselves from future recalls.
However, Chamisa allegedly persuaded them to contest under the CCC banner.
“We wish we had contested as independent candidates. There were chances of reclaiming our seats, but we were misled by someone (Chamisa) with no political strategy," said the source.
The source added that they were now sceptical of Chamisa's leadership and suspected collaboration with Tshabangu to undermine their political futures.
"It seems Chamisa is working hand in glove with Tshabangu to destroy our political careers. We no longer trust Chamisa. Some of us wish we had not listened to his stupid directive for us to file nomination papers under the CCC banner," added the source.
According to the source, some CCC-recalled legislators who were set to contest the February 3, 2024, by-elections have since defied Chamisa’s directive and are going to contest the by-elections as independent candidates.
Political commentator, Paidamoyo Mutsvairo said that the recalled legislators were justified in contesting as independent candidates as it was now clear that Chamisa has lost control of the CCC.
“Their decision reflects a perceived loss of control within the party leadership and a determination to reclaim agency over their political destinies.
“This internal discord within the CCC not only jeopardises its unity but also raises questions about the party's strategic coherence as it faces future electoral challenges. The upcoming by-elections will undoubtedly serve as a pivotal moment, testing the resilience and adaptability of the CCC in light of internal dissent,” said Mutsvairo.
Meanwhile, the escalating internal discord within the CCC is casting a shadow over its anticipated participation in the forthcoming by-elections.
The deepening divisions and growing disillusionment among its members may potentially jeopardise the opposition movement's prospects in the upcoming electoral contests.
