Political Reporter
Youths aligned with former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa are reportedly planning to confiscate parliamentary vehicles issued to opposition MPs who sided with interim CCC Secretary-General Sengezo Tshabangu.
The youths, operating under a group they call the "Youth Task Force," have reportedly resolved to commence their operation, code-named “Operation Reclaim Parliament Cars,” early next year.
A source privy to the developments revealed that the initiative is set to begin on January 5, 2025.
According to the source, the Youth Task Force views the vehicles as public assets meant to serve constituencies rather than individuals accused of betraying the party’s struggle.
“The Youth Task Force has resolved that starting from January 5, 2025, they will embark on a bold operation to reclaim all Parliament cars allocated to opposition MPs, particularly those who have sold out. These vehicles belong to the constituencies and the people who voted on August 23, 2023.It is unacceptable for those who have chosen to betray the struggle to continue using taxpayers’ resources for personal benefit. We are taking a firm stand to ensure accountability,” the source said.
The source further revealed that the operation has the blessings of Chamisa himself, who has reportedly endorsed the initiative as a necessary step to restore dignity and credibility to that party.
“The Youth Task Force is calling on all Chamisa sympathisers to support this initiative as a way to hold rogue elected officials accountable. This is not about personal vengeance but about ensuring that public resources are utilised for the benefit of the people, not individual enrichment. This initiative has the full support of Chamisa, who understands the importance of maintaining the trust of the people,” the source added.
This development comes against the backdrop of escalating infighting within Zimbabwe's opposition parties, particularly the CCC.
The split between Tshabangu’s faction and Chamisa’s loyalists has created deep divisions, threatening the long-term viability of the opposition in Zimbabwean politics.
Observers have noted that the opposition's internal wrangling has undermined its ability to present a unified front against the ruling ZANU-PF party.
The infighting has been marked by accusations of betrayal, ideological clashes, and competition for control of resources, including parliamentary vehicles.
Political analyst Calvin Chitsunge said the unfolding crisis could further weaken the opposition.
“What we are witnessing is a fragmented opposition that is losing sight of its primary goal. This factionalism is not only harming their credibility but also alienating voters who want a clear alternative,” Chitsunge said.
While the Youth Task Force’s operation may energise Chamisa’s base, critics argue it risks deepening the divisions within the opposition and alienating those MPs who may have been open to reconciliation.
Whether this bold initiative will restore the opposition’s unity or further fracture it remains to be seen.