Political Reporter
Efforts by former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader, Nelson Chamisa’s loyalists, to garner regional support for their anticipated political party encountered a significant obstacle as they failed to secure the endorsement of South Africa's Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leaders.
A source who spoke to this publication revealed that Chamisa's emissaries, led by Pashor Sibanda, Prince Dubeko Sibanda, Bekezela Maplanka, and Morgan Ncube, faced a dismal rejection during their recent engagement with senior EFF figures in South Africa.
According to the source, the encounter took place at the EFF manifesto launch held at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban last Saturday.
“During this event, Chamisa's delegates seized the opportunity to interact with EFF's deputy president, Floyd Shivambu, in a bid to solicit support for Chamisa's forthcoming political venture. However, the outcome was far from what they had hoped for,” said the source.
The source added that Shivambu delivered a blunt rebuke to Chamisa's representatives, categorically refusing any endorsement.
He purportedly chastised them for their perceived political disarray, stating, "The EFF will not render its support to individuals who are politically confused."
Moreover, Shivambu reportedly cited concerns over Chamisa's past performance, particularly his susceptibility to being politically outmanoeuvred by the likes of Douglas Mwonzora and Sengezo Tshabangu.
Despite attempts by Chamisa's delegation to assuage Shivambu's reservations and assure him of a more robust political strategy, the EFF deputy leader remained steadfast in his stance.
“He (Shivambu) insisted that Chamisa must first demonstrate political maturity and coherence before seeking regional or international backing for his endeavours,” said the source.
Political commentator, Calvin Chitsunge, weighed in on the matter, expressing scepticism regarding the likelihood of EFF support for Chamisa's new political movement.
Chitsunge noted that while the EFF's leadership has been vocal on certain Zimbabwean issues, they have refrained from openly aligning with Chamisa or his former party, the CCC.
This reticence, according to Chitsunge, suggests a reluctance on the part of the EFF to extend support to Chamisa's initiatives.
“The rejection by EFF leaders deals a significant blow to Chamisa's aspirations of galvanising regional backing for his political ambitions. With EFF's refusal to endorse his forthcoming party, Chamisa may find himself facing an uphill battle in garnering support both domestically and internationally,” said Chitsunge.
As Chamisa and his allies regroup in the wake of this setback, the road ahead appears increasingly challenging.
