Political Reporter
Controversial former ZANU PF Youth League National Political Commissar and leader of the Front for Economic Emancipation in Zimbabwe (FEEZ), Godfrey Tsenengamu, has quit active politics, citing disillusionment with his party's ability to enact meaningful change as the primary reason for his decision.
In a press release issued yesterday, Tsenengamu declared his withdrawal from political engagements, expressing his commitment to advocating for a community free from corruption and other societal vices.
"Therefore, let it be noted here and now that I have ceased to represent or push any political cause and shall henceforth deliberately avoid commenting, representing, or pursuing in public or private any political cause,” said Tsenengamu.
This announcement marked a significant shift for Tsenengamu, who was once known for his impassioned political rhetoric and fervent activism.
However, he expressed his growing scepticism regarding the efficacy of his political pursuits, admitting that his party, the FEEZ, lacked the strength to challenge ZANU PF's dominance.
In the press statement, Tsenengamu revealed that he had contemplated collaborating with former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa. However, upon closer examination, he acknowledged fundamental ideological disparities between them.
“This option of considering working with Advocate Chamisa, in my view, will not work in that I am a devoted pan-Africanist and a radical socialist with very strong and uncompromising ideological propositions, and I do not think that my ideology and political approach, which includes operating through institutionalised frameworks, will be compatible with that of Chamisa’s strategic ambiguity and whose ideology he has kept to himself and not publicly pronounced.
“I also do not get along with his preferred leadership style and modus operandi. Given this reality, I do not see myself being able to work with Chamisa, and any attempts to try a relationship might not work in the long run,” said Tsenengamu.
Political commentator Calvin Chitsunge weighed in on Tsenengamu's departure, recalling similar announcements made by the former ZANU PF youth political commissar in 2021.
"This decision by Tsenengamu to exit politics doesn't come as a surprise. He has a history of wavering allegiance and failed attempts at political alliances,” said Chitsunge.
Chitsunge further emphasised the loss of faith in Tsenengamu among the Zimbabwean populace, highlighting his affiliations with various political entities over the years.
"Tsenengamu was known for his political flip-flopping, moving from ZANU PF to FEEZ, then associating with Blessing Kasiyamhuru's Zimbabwe Partnership for Prosperity (ZIPP) and Saviour Kasukuwere's political project. His inconsistent stance and shifting loyalties undermined his credibility as a politician," Chitsunge stated.
As Tsenengamu bids farewell to the political stage, his departure raises questions about the future landscape of Zimbabwean opposition politics.
In his final act, Tsenengamu leaves behind a legacy marked by controversy and political turbulence, but his decision to step away signifies a closing chapter in Zimbabwe's ever-evolving political narrative.
