Political Reporter
Opposition leaders and political analysts in the country have unleashed a wave of criticism against Nelson Chamisa following his abrupt decision to abandon the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).
In a tweet yesterday, Chamisa declared his separation from the CCC and hinted at the formation of a new political party.
However, the decision has not been met without criticism, with the president of Labour, Economists, and African Democrats (LEAD), Linda Masarira, accusing Chamisa of being an egocentric leader who disregards the welfare of his supporters.
"Successful leaders don’t quit until the job is done. What Chamisa has done here is a clear reflection of his egocentric nature, with no regard whatsoever for the people around him," remarked Masarira in a scathing statement.
She further questioned Chamisa's consideration for his MPs, councillors, and supporters, accusing him of providing false hope regarding SADC interventions and fresh elections.
"Why has he thrown his MPs and councillors under the bus? Is he punishing them for refusing to disengage from parliament?" Masarira queried.
Political analyst, Matthew Mare, weighed in on the situation emphasising the unintended consequences of Chamisa's decision.
"By quitting CCC, Chamisa has inadvertently recalled all his MPs and Senators from Parliament and the Senate for selfish gains. If they are in Parliament and the Senate on the CCC card, by distancing himself from that party, he is also distancing himself from them," asserted Dr. Mare.
Dr. Mare characterised Chamisa's move as a great betrayal to his political colleagues, comparing it to past political upheavals and cautioning against underestimating the electorate's intelligence.
“Chamisa has reduced the whole opposition spectrum to student activism and instead of honouring his mistakes he rushed to blame Zanu PF as if it sits in his meetings. Chamisa has trust issues, everyone around him especially those who challenge his authority are Zanu PF projects and state infiltrators. If infiltration is that easy, why not reciprocate it to Zanu PF. The danger is that the traditional funders now understand him well and his blame game antics. He has lost trust and credibility from his funders, stakeholders, and founders of the MDC at its inception in 1999,” said Dr Mare.
Another political analyst, Calvin Chitsunge, said that the majority of CCC supporters find themselves in a state of shock and disbelief, caught off guard by Chamisa's sudden resignation.
“The unexpected departure has left them grappling with uncertainty and a sense of betrayal as their leader forges ahead with a new political venture. His departure from the CCC might impact negatively on his support base and might cause Zimbabweans to doubt him as a political leader,” said Chitsunge.
Meanwhile, as the dust settles, the nation awaits Chamisa's next steps and the ramifications for both his political career and the future of the Citizens Coalition for Change.
