Political Reporter

Nelson Chamisa, the leader of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), missed a golden opportunity to have his electoral grievances heard by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) leaders.

This followed his decision to send an inexperienced representative to present his claims of electoral malpractice, which he alleges led to his defeat in the recent polls.

In a surprising move, instead of opting for seasoned CCC members such as Tendai Biti or Professor Welshman Ncube, Chamisa chose Gladys Hlatswayo who, according to sources, lacks expertise in international relations and negotiation skills.

Our insider within the SADC circle revealed that the regional leaders felt somewhat insulted by this delegation. They anticipated a more experienced representative from the CCC, given the weight of the allegations being raised.

Consequently, the representative sent by Chamisa was allegedly overlooked by the SADC leaders, leading her to return home without securing meetings with any key figures.

The same source further disclosed that there were aspirations among some SADC leaders for a Government of National Unity between Chamisa and President Mnangagwa. However, these ambitions were hindered by the eagerness of CCC legislators and councillors who chose to be sworn in.

According to the source, this pre-emptive action goes against the narrative that Chamisa has been propelling—that the recent elections were rigged in favour of ZANU PF.

The source added that some SADC leaders reportedly felt aggrieved by Chamisa's inability to rein in his legislators until the regional body had addressed the Zimbabwean situation.

Meanwhile, Chamisa's claims of electoral rigging are failing to get traction. More evidence is emerging, suggesting that the polls were conducted in a manner that was free and fair. This shift in narrative might further remove Chamisa's grievances from the regional agenda.