Political Reporter
Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Bulawayo Ward 4 Councillor elect, David Coltart, is reportedly grappling with profound disappointment in the aftermath of the 2023 Harmonised General Elections.
The bone of contention lies in the CCC leader, Nelson Chamisa,'s apparent reluctance to challenge the election results in court.
A source who requested anonymity claimed that Coltart expressed his dismay to his inner circle, suggesting that Chamisa appeared to be "a dog without teeth."
The source added that Coltart insinuated that Chamisa lacked the requisite political muscle and tenacity to effectively maintain his position at the forefront of the opposition party.
"Coltart lamented that Chamisa's inaction, especially in the wake of President Mnangagwa's victory, runs the risk of alienating a significant portion of his supporter base," the source conveyed.
The source said that Coltart said that many people would inevitably begin to question Chamisa's capacity and resolve as a leader, especially when his decision to abstain from a court challenge stands in such stark contrast to the expectations and hopes of his followers.
The source went on to say that Coltart said that Chamisa should have approached the courts, even though it is true that he was fairly defeated by President Mnangagwa.
"David is indeed disappointed with Chamisa. He's openly disclosed to those close to him that he doubts Chamisa's capacity to shepherd the opposition movement any further. Coltart told his people that even if Chamisa personally believed he had been defeated fair and square by President Mnangagwa, it was still paramount for him to approach the courts. Such a move would have been strategic, ensuring continued faith and trust amongst his supporters, added the source.
The source added that Coltart said that Chamsia should not turn a blind eye on those who sacrificed for the CCC in the just-ended elections.
"According to Coltart, Chamisa should never turn a blind eye to the pleas and sacrifices of those who have stood by the party's side," said the source.
The source further noted that Coltart's concerns weren't just rooted in the recent past but was looking ahead, opining on the future of CCC.
If the CCC aspires to have a fighting chance in 2028, the search for Chamisa's successor should commence now. And that successor needs to have the grit and tenacity to take on ZANU PF head-on, rather than giving supporters a run-around," Coltart allegedly conveyed.
In a bid to get a comprehensive view of the unfolding situation, we made several attempts to reach out to the CCC's spokesperson, Promise Mukwananzi. Regrettably, our efforts to secure a comment remained unsuccessful, with all calls to his mobile phone going unanswered.
