Political Reporter
Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) diaspora branches have come out guns blazing accusing that party’s former leader, Nelson Chamisa, of being responsible for the current internal strife that has paralysed the party, Harare Post has learnt
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This emerged during a virtual meeting convened last week by that party’s diaspora branches drawn from South Africa, Zambia, Botswana, Tanzania and Namibia.
A member within the top echelons of one of the CCC branches told this publication that the group had asserted that Chamisa's leadership style, which stinks of dictatorship, and failure to embrace transparency, apart from embezzlement of funds, were key factors behind that party's implosion.
“The diaspora members accused Chamisa of exacerbating internal strife within the CCC, contending that his reluctance to participate in an elective congress and his penchant for personalised leadership had contributed to the party's current fragmentation. The members agreed that CCC could have averted its current implosion if Chamisa had embraced democratic processes and operated with transparency,” said the CCC member.
According to another branch member, the sentiment echoed in that meeting suggested a growing frustration with Chamisa's leadership with emphasis on accusations against Chamisa for misappropriating party finances.
"It was resolved that while Chamisa was entitled to resign from CCC, he must first ensure a full and transparent account of all donations and party assets,” said another source.
Moreover, the diaspora members expressed a desire to salvage CCC's prospects by persuading prominent figures like Job Sikhala to remain within the fold.
"A large number of CCC diaspora members believe Sikhala could play a pivotal role in the party's revitalization," remarked the source, indicating a concerted effort to retain key figures amidst the party's tumultuous period.
Meanwhile, CCC has splintered into various factions, further complicating its path forward.
Welshman Ncube, Jameson Timba, Albert Mhlanga and Prominence Mkwananzi have emerged as leaders of distinct groups within that party, signalling a deepening rift in its ranks.
Political analyst, Calvin Chitsunge, commented that "the fragmentation within the CCC reflects a crisis of leadership and direction. Without a unifying figure and a clear vision, CCC risks losing its relevance and cohesion.”
As the CCC grapples with internal discord, the imperative for mature leadership devoid of personal agendas becomes increasingly apparent.
In the face of uncertainty, CCC stands at a crossroads, and its future hinges on its ability to navigate through the current turmoil and emerge with a cohesive and inclusive leadership framework.
