Staff Reporter
Opposition political parties in Zimbabwe are resurrecting the National Electoral Reform Agenda (NERA), signalling a renewed effort to solicit external funds amidst a leadership crisis within the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).
A source confirmed the resurgence of NERA's influence, saying, "A memorandum has been disseminated to all opposition political parties, inviting them to the signing of the NERA Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) document on January 18, 2024. This strategic initiative underscores a collective effort among opposition parties to explore alternative funding avenues.”
Political analyst, Calvin Chitsunge, in an interview with this publication pointed out that these smaller political entities, like NERA, are adopting these strategies to canvass external funding without explicitly aligning themselves with the CCC banner.
Chitsunge further said that the resuscitation of NERA might have been necessitated by the allegations of the misappropriation of funds by CCC leader, Nelson Chamisa.
“The allegations of embezzlement of funds by Chamisa, specifically the misuse of US$7 million in donor funds intended for supporting CCC candidates during the 2023 harmonized general elections, have intensified the disillusionment among political establishments," Chitsunge remarked.
The political analyst went on to underscore the broader objectives of these political establishments, saying that they were already positioning themselves for the 2028 plebiscite.
"Beyond seeking funds, these entities are strategically positioning themselves to gain political relevance leading up to the 2028 elections. Initiatives like the electoral reform agenda are not only financial strategies but also tools employed to attract funding from Western sponsors, reflecting a multifaceted approach to their political goals,” Chitsunge added.
Furthermore, historical context revealed that a strategy akin to that of smaller establishments like NERA was previously tested during the 2018 harmonized elections. The attempt aimed at advocating electoral reforms under the MDC Alliance umbrella, but ultimately proved unsuccessful.
With trust eroded by Chamisa's ongoing financial issues, smaller political groups are reactivating seemingly minor programs like the electoral reform agenda, to attract funding independently.
This move signals a clear departure from Chamisa, emphasizing the loss of confidence in his financial stewardship.
