Political Reporter
Cracks within the fragmented opposition were laid bare on Saturday at the SAPES Trust in Harare, where former legislator Job Sikhala launched his much-anticipated book.
Despite the presence of prominent opposition figures,such as Nelson Chamisa, Arnold Tsunga, Charlton Hwende, Thabani Mpofu, and SAPES founder Ibbo Mandaza, none of them purchased a copy of the book, a development that observers say signals deepening rifts within the movement.
Sikhala had hoped the launch of his book would be a moment of solidarity and financial support from his comrades.
However, the atmosphere at SAPES Trust was anything but unified.
A source close to the event told this publication that Sikhala was “visibly disappointed” when the highest bidder turned out to be Taurai Kandishaya, a well-known ZANU PF deputy national political commissar for the youth league, who bought the book for US$750.
“It was shocking. He was expecting symbolic support from his colleagues, but Kandishaya of all people ended up making the biggest contribution,” the source said.
According to figures seen by this publication, the total amount realised from the book sales was a modest US$1 960, far below Sikhala’s expectations of over US$5 000.
Despite a full house of political elites, activists, journalists and members of the diplomatic community, actual purchases of the book were dismally low, with several attendees leaving empty-handed or requesting complimentary copies.
Critics say the low sales and lack of support from opposition bigwigs reflect the underlying tensions and divisions that continue to plague Zimbabwe’s democratic forces.
Political commentator Dr. Vimbai Muchenje told this publication that the event “exposed the performative nature of solidarity within the opposition.”
“They show up for optics, but when it comes to real support, financial or otherwise, it’s every man for himself,” she said.
Other analysts went further, dismissing Sikhala’s book as “nothing more than the memoirs of a bitter man.”
Political analyst Admire Muderedzwa commented, “The book is emotionally charged and lacks strategic insight. It reads like a personal vendetta rather than a blueprint for political renewal.”
Sikhala did not respond to requests for comment after the event.
As the opposition struggles to define a united path forward, Saturday’s event may go down as yet another missed opportunity to demonstrate cohesion, leaving more questions than answers about the future of Zimbabwe’s opposition movement.
